Senator Bridget McKenzie
The Victorian State Labor Government has been accused of undercutting Australian businesses, after selecting to use imported timber for the construction of Melbourne Metro’s new Anzac Station, rather than hardwood sustainably grown and processed in Victoria. Source: Timberbiz
Nationals Senate Leader and Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie said the decision to use engineered timber from the German company Hess Timber undermines local jobs and the forestry industry.
“This is yet another blow for our local timber industry here in Victoria. We have some of the best timber in the world in our own backyard, such as Australian Sustainable Hardwoods based in Heyfield, but this State Labor Government is again using an overseas company for timber constructions. That’s just not good enough,” Senator McKenzie said.
“We know the forestry industry is sustainable and adheres to very strict regulations, with Australian foresters upholding some of the highest environmental standards in the world. Yet the Andrews State Government is still planning on shutting down Victoria’s native timber industry by 2030. It’s ludicrous.”
“The Victorian Government is so hell-bent on shutting down our native timber industry, but this project again demonstrates how crucial timber is for construction.”
“Melbourne Metro’s new Anzac Station will see approximately 30,000 people walk past it a day while catering for train and tram users, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. So why aren’t we showcasing our world-class timber?”
“It’s tougher than steel, lower emission to produce, and it’s beautiful.”
“The Victorian Government owes us an explanation and it’s about time it started backing local jobs.”
