Preliminary ABS figures show strong growth in residential building activity in the March 2014 quarter, said the Housing Industry Association. Source: Timberbiz

The New Zealand economy has been recovering from recession but slumping house sales are a significant risk to an optimistic outlook for the economy. Source: Otago Daily Times

The Tasmanian Opposition is set to vote against the Government's legislation to dismantle the forest peace deal. Sources: The Examiner, 7 News

A timber recycling facility in Clackline, Western Australia has been given a five-year extension of its temporary planning approval. Source: In My Community

New South Wales state Environment Minister Rob Stokes said he would receive a report on the management of cypress forests in two State Conservation Areas, by the end of the month. Sources: ABC News

Forestry research institute Scion said a New Zealand High Court ruling against the use of new breeding techniques for pine trees won't upset its current research program but could be an obstacle to future research. Source: Radio New Zealand

New research suggests biofuel made from oil mallee trees could be a viable source of jet fuel, offering a glimmer of hope for growers in Western Australia who planted the trees in large numbers in the past two decades. Sources: ABC News, TN

Forestry South Australia workers have another six week wait before the State Government decides whether they still have a job. Sources: ABC Rural, ABC