The Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA) welcomes the Coalition’s forestry initiatives, as outlined by Peter Dutton in northern Tasmania today.

Speaking after the announcement, TFPA Chief Executive Officer Nick Steel said the industry is pleased the Coalition plans to back all forms of our sustainable industry.

“Peter Dutton’s commitment to all forms of forestry – including our sustainable native sector – provides the certainty our industry needs to invest and grow our businesses for years to come,” Mr Steel said.

“Tasmania’s forest industry is predominantly based in rural and regional towns, so the ability to plan and invest for the long term means our businesses can support the communities that they live and work in into the future.

“News that a Coalition Government will provide $40 million in matched grants to establish a new Timber Manufacturing Expansion Program will further assist local businesses to value add on-island, and will work hand-in-hand with the Tasmanian Government’s on-island processing grants.

“Recommitment to the Coalition’s TFES improvements is also welcomed and following the success of Tasmania’s Permanent Timber Production Zone (PTPZ) program, it’s pleasing to see the Liberal, if elected, will roll out Similar zones across Australia.

“Today’s announcement shows that the Liberal Party is committed to protecting our sustainable industry into the future, and we look forward to receiving similar strong commitments from the Labor Party in the coming weeks.”