How to resolve AdBlock issue? $150 million forestry boost backs Australia's housing future says HIA
THE Housing Industry Association (HIA) has welcomed the Federal Government’s $150 million investment in Australia’s forestry industry, saying secure timber supply is critical to building the homes Australia desperately needs.
Under the $150 million program, grants and initiatives will be delivered across five key streams focused on modernising the sector, supporting secure and well-paid jobs, strengthening innovation, securing sustainable fibre supply and increasing Australia’s sovereign capability.
HIA chief executive for industry and policy, Simon Croft said the Forestry Growth Fund investment in plantations, timber processing, innovation and workforce capacity was a welcome recognition that housing targets must be backed by the materials needed to deliver them.
“You can’t build 1.2 million homes without securing the materials needed to build them,” Mr Croft said.
“Timber remains one of the most important building materials in Australian housing, with more than 70% of house frames constructed using timber.
“The $15 million investment in plantation establishment is particularly welcome. The trees we plant today will determine the timber available to Australian builders in the decades ahead.
“Equally important is the $115 million investment in modern processing and innovation to strengthen local manufacturing and get more value from Australia’s timber resources.
“Recent supply chain disruptions demonstrated the consequences when critical building materials become scarce, costs rise, construction slows and ultimately builders and home buyers pay more.
“Strengthening domestic timber production and processing will help reduce Australia’s exposure to international supply shocks while supporting manufacturing and regional jobs," Mr Croft said.
“HIA has consistently called for a long-term national approach to timber and building material security.
“The government’s Forestry Growth Fund and Timber Fibre Strategy are positive steps towards that goal and HIA welcomes the strong focus on supporting Australia’s sovereign capability.
“Australia has an enormous task ahead to build enough homes for a growing population. That means planning not just for the homes we need tomorrow, but the timber, trades and manufacturing capacity required to build them.
“This investment is a welcome step towards ensuring Australian builders have reliable access to Australian timber to get those homes built,” Mr Croft said.
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