Australian plantation establishment grants welcomed

Forest plantation establishment grants announced this week by the Albanese Government will help Australia grow much needed timber and wood fibre supply for the nation’s future, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) Natasa Sikman said.

Almost AU$74 million was committed to the Support Plantation Establishment Program through the 2022-23 Federal Budget with the grants process opening this month. Grants will be open to private operators and state and territory forestry enterprises with the target of establishing new plantations and farm forestry operations

Natasa Sikman said, “It’s great news that the federal bipartisan commitment to grow more timber production trees is starting to be rolled out. We welcome the Albanese Government carrying through on this program and thank Minister for Forestry Murray Watt for his ongoing commitment to ensure delivery. We will continue to work with the Government throughout the rollout,” Natasa Sikman said.

Funding for the program will be available across multiple rounds from 2023-24 to 2026-27 with AU$2000 per hectare to be provided by the Government for every hectare of long rotation plantation established. Applicants will be required to co-contribute.

More information about the program can be found at the Community Grants Hub
Source: AFPA