The WA timber industry has welcomed the State Government’s extension of the Building Bonus program. The site works commencement period for homebuilders who qualify for the $20,000 grant has been extended from six months to 12 months, which will help alleviate supply/demand pressure. Source: Timberbiz
Building Bonus grants are available for eligible homebuyers who sign up by 31 December 2020 to build a new house or purchase a new property in a single-tier development prior to completion of construction.
As there were so many grant applicants when the program was first announced in July, there were concerns that construction delays and material supply issues would impact eligibility.
Sustainable WA timber is a popular choice in construction, being a renewable resource with many favourable characteristics, it is commonly used for house frames, roofs, cabinetry, doors, timber floors and decks.
Forest Industries Federation of WA (FIFWA) Executive Director Melissa Haslam said the announcement would help ease the pressure facing the industry and create more jobs, reinforcing the importance of WA’s timber industry.
“We are pleased the State Government has listened to industry concerns and acted accordingly,” Mrs Haslam said.
“Timber is in high demand as for many it continues to be the preferred material for construction, as recognised by Forestry Minister Dave Kelly through the State’s Wood Encouragement Policy, adopted in 2018.
“The Policy encourages the use of responsibly sourced timber in construction and fit-out buildings in WA, highlighting the benefits of building with a natural, renewable and carbon-storing material.
Minister Kelly has rightly outlined that building with wood is one of the best tools available for fighting climate change.
“This just emphasises what an important economic driver the timber industry is in WA, and what a key player it will continue to be in the State’s economic recovery.”
The WA timber industry contributes $1.4 billion to the economy and creates about 6000 jobs, with more than 90% of those located in regional areas.
