SA’s $400k investment to boost regional forestry training

The South Australian Forest Products Association (SAFPA) has warmly welcomed the State Government’s commitment of A$400,000 in funding to support the completion of LITA’s new training base, a significant investment in securing the future of skills development and long-term industry capability across the Limestone Coast.

This funding recognises the critical and enduring role LITA plays not only in supporting the forest industries, but in delivering essential skills training that underpins all primary industries, trades, emergency services, First Nations groups, community busdriversand many other regional occupations.

Completion of the new training base will deliver modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that reflects contemporary industry needs and emerging technologies. It will also improve access to vocational pathways for young people and career changers in regional areas, helping retain talent locally while strengthening the long-term economic resilience of the region.

SAFPA Chief Executive Officer Nathan Paine said the Government’s decision demonstrates a strong understanding of the interconnected nature of regional industries, the significance of the forest industries to the state and the importance of investing indelivering skills infrastructure in the region.

“Alongside investments in TAFE, the new Technical College, the Forestry Centre of Excellence and Tree Breeding Australia, the funding reflects a strong and consistent commitment to education, training, research and development in Mount Gambier and the future of the Limestone Coast,” said Mr Paine.“This commitment shows strong recognition that training capability is not just a forest industries issue, it is a community and regional development priority,” Mr Paine said.

“LITA plays a vital role in preparing the workforce that supports forestry, farming, logistics, domestic manufacturing, emergency services and a wide range ofother community operations. Investing in LITA’s facilities is an investment in South Australia’s long-term productivity and regional prosperity.”

The funding will help ensure the permanent training base is completed to a standard that meets both current and future needs, enabling LITA to continue delivering high-quality, hands-on education aligned with industry expectations and safety standards.

Since the early 1990s, LITA has been a cornerstone of practical, industry-aligned training, equipping apprentices, trainees and existing workers with the skills required to operate safely, productively and sustainably. While its contribution to the forest industries has been significant, its impact extends well beyond a single sector.

Without LITA’s presence in theSouth East, people seeking this training would be required to travel to Adelaide,or even as far as Port Lincoln,to access training that is currently delivered locally.The training delivered through LITA underpins workforce capability across the broader Limestone Coast economy and community.

SAFPA congratulates the State Government, and in particular Minister for Forest Industries, The Hon Clare Scriven, forher support for LITA Training, which will deliverpositive outcomes for students,employers and regional communities alike.

Source & image credit: SAFPA