The Albanese Government has taken a key step in delivering an important $10 million election commitment in Forestry Workforce Training this week with the opening of tenders for the program’s delivery, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA), Diana Hallam said today. Source: Timberbiz
“I thank Minister Murray Watt for his continued support of this great Australian industry through this important initiative.” Ms Hallam said.
“The forestry industry is a significant employer in rural and regional Australia and like many sectors is struggling with capacity and skills in a tight labour market and this program will provide much needed support to ensure access to contemporary and specific training and credentials required for the workforce.
“The suite of skills needed for a career in the forestry, wood, paper and timber industries is extensive and our capacity to supply skilled labour is being challenged. This challenge has been raised with me by every employer I have met, and we appreciate the Albanese Government’s assistance.”
Australia’s forest and wood products industries supply the nation with vital building and construction materials, packaging and many essential household products – all are increasingly important for Australia as we move to replace plastics and decarbonise the economy. This diverse industry requires a specialised workforce and an issue faced by these industries is accessing the specific training and credentials required for the workforce.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is now searching for a service provider to deliver the Program through an approach to market in line with the recommendations of the Scoping Study.
Assistant Secretary of Agvet Chemicals and Forestry, Julie Gaglia said identifying a preferred supplier through an open tender approach would support the delivery of the Program to ensure it meets the training needs of the forest, wood products, pulp and paper and fibre sectors.
“The industry is a significant employer in rural and regional Australia, directly employing 52,000 people,” Ms Gaglia said.
“Due to the remote location and ageing workforce, increased participation in the workforce by First Nations Australians and women will be increasingly important.
“An issue often faced by the forestry industry is accessing the specific training and credentials required for the workforce.
“The selected service provider will work to support the delivery of skills and training to meet the requirements of Australia’s forest and wood products sectors and provide long-term sustainable solutions for industry and workers.
“They will also provide solutions to structural impediments identified in the scoping study completed late last year.”
Potential suppliers can submit a tender via AusTender now. The approach to market will close at 9:00 am on 28 May 2024.
You can submit a tender here.
