The Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA) has welcomed the 2024-25 State Budget handed down by Treasurer Michael Ferguson this afternoon, saying it will assist creating thousands of homes and supporting our state’s timber industry.

According to TFPA CEO Nick Steel, today’s budget will deliver homes, with the Tasmanian forestry sector ready to assist.

“This budget commits to building many thousands of homes across the state, but to build thousands of homes you’ll need a lot of timber,” Mr Steel said.

“Environmentally friendly homes require radiata pine framing and plywood for the substrates, hardwoods for the floors, windows, doors, benchtops and stairs, MDF and chipboard for kitchen/laundry cabinets and wardrobes; and treated pine for the fences and landscaping. That’s without even going into their furniture needs, packing boxes and paper products. 

“I look forward to working with the Government as they continue to develop the strategy, to ensure that Tasmanian timber is maximised in the new homes – not only for the environment, but also for the thousands of Tasmanians employed in our sustainable forestry industry.”

Amongst the other major forestry announcements made in this budget are:

• $50,000 to scope the feasibility of salvaging Huon pine from other areas of the State;
• an additional $5 million towards On Island Processing Program grants;
• $100,000 to assess the market for special species timbers; and
• More than $750,000 to assist the Tasmanian Timber Promotion Board in delivering its research, marketing, and information-sharing program for Tasmanian timber and its uses.

“These announcements give Tasmania’s forestry businesses confidence to continue to invest for their future. Additionally, the increase in funding for on-island processing grants means Tasmanian businesses will be able to do more with our timber on our island,” Mr Steel said.

“Processing timber in Tasmania, as opposed to sending it offshore to value add, will deliver more jobs to Tasmanians and make sure more of the benefit from out forestry businesses stays in our state. It’s a win-win for all Tasmanians.”

Mr Steel said the TFPA remains committed to working with both sides of Tasmanian politics to ensure our industry remains respected, responsible and renewable.