The Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA) has welcomed further commitments to Australia’s diverse and sustainable forest industry by the Liberal National Coalition ahead of the 2025 federal election.

Following on from their commitments to protect existing forestry quotas, to defund the environmental lawfare organisation the Environmental Defenders Office, and to back the future of the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES) to the tune of $65 million, Shadow Forestry Minister and Tasmanian Senator Jonno Duniam committed last week to maintaining the existing Regional Forestry Agreements.

Speaking with TFPA Chief Executive Officer, Nick Steel, Senator Duniam outlined the Liberals “ironclad commitment” to stick the RFAs if elected in the May election.

“Supporting RFAs means supporting our environment, the jobs and communities that rely on this industry,” Senator Duniam said.

The commitment was welcomed by Mr Steel, who said, the existing RFA model holds the state’s forestry businesses to the highest level of scrutiny and ensures the industry is a leader the world on environmental and sustainability standards.  

“It’s a tough system, but our industry knows it’s the best way to manage our forests, as well as to ensure certainty for our businesses. That’s why we’ve welcomed Senator Duniam’s announcement,” Mr Steel said.

“We’re now calling on Labor to show the same commitment to the thousands of Tasmanians across our state who are employed by our forestry businesses and back our existing Tasmanian RFA.

“It’s the best way to protect their jobs and strengthen the scores of local communities across the state who rely on Tasmanian forestry to thrive.”

Senator Duniam’s commitment to the existing RFAs can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1G111CTLmv/