Forest Products Industry

A major safety crackdown is currently being rolled out across Queensland as Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) launches a state-wide campaign targeting forklift operations in the transport and warehousing sectors. Source: Timberbiz The blitz comes in response to alarming rates of serious injuries and fatalities involving mobile plant equipment, with forklifts topping the list of high-risk machinery. As part of the campaign, WHSQ inspectors will be authorised to issue on-the-spot fines for unlicensed forklift operation and for workplaces failing to implement adequate traffic management procedures. The National Timber and Hardware Association is urging employers to act quickly. David Little, NTHA CEO welcomed the campaign, emphasising that safety must come before convenience, particularly as many operators are working with outdated licences or have not undergone refresher training in years. NTHA’s three-hour Forklift Refresher Training is designed to bring licensed operators up to speed with the latest legal and safety requirements. A Traffic Management Plan is also a legal requirement for any workplace operating forklifts or mobile plant. It outlines clear and practical procedures for the safe movement of all vehicles within a worksite and must be specific to each location. The plan must be clearly communicated and understood by all personnel. NTHA’s Workplace Safety division is offering expert support to help businesses prepare, from reviewing current traffic plans to implementing new ones that meet compliance standards. NTHA says this is not just about ticking boxes, it is about preventing tragedies. “We commend WHSQ for this campaign,” an NTHA spokesperson said. “Safety is paramount. Many forklift operators hold outdated licences or have not received refresher training in some time. Our three-hour Forklift refresher training ensures operators are aligned with the latest safety standards and legal obligations.

Dr Shane Reti, New Zealand Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, announced that New Zealand’s new public research organisations will be formed from 1 July 2025. From this date, Scion will operate as a division of the New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science (Bioeconomy Science Institute). Source: Timberbiz The new organisation will advance innovation in agriculture, aquaculture, forestry, biotechnology and manufacturing, protect ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks and develop new bio-based technologies and products. Scion will join AgResearch, Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research and Plant and Food in the Bioeconomy Science Institute. Dr Reti announced the appointment of the Board of Directors for the new Bioeconomy Science Institute: Chair Barry Harris (currently Chair of NIWA) Deputy Chair Kim Wallace (currently Chair of AgResearch) Candace Kinser (currently a director of Plant & Food Research) Andrew Morrison (currently a director of AgResearch) Gray Baldwin (currently a director of Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research) The other two new public research organisations have also been named. The New Zealand Institute for Earth Science (bringing together NIWA and GNS) and the New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science (currently the Institute of Environmental Science and Research – ESR) will also be formed on 1 July. “These reforms are about unlocking the full potential of science to deliver stronger economic growth and greater resilience for New Zealand. We’re not wasting a moment,” Dr Reti said. “Earlier this year, the Prime Minister unveiled a major overhaul of the science system, including the move from seven Crown Research Institutes to three new, future-focused entities. These new organisations will concentrate on key areas of national importance.” The new institutes will be: New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science – advancing innovation in agriculture, aquaculture, forestry, biotechnology and manufacturing; protecting ecosystems from biosecurity threats and climate risks; and developing new bio-based technologies and products. New Zealand Institute for Earth Science – supporting energy security and sustainability; developing land, marine and mineral resources; and improving resilience to natural hazards and climate-related risks. New Zealand Institute for Public Health and Forensic Science – strengthening public health through disease detection and response; and supporting public safety through forensic science services. “These institutes will ensure our world-class researchers are focused on delivering science that drives innovation, supports our industries, and improves the lives of everyday New Zealanders,” Dr Reti said. “Critically, the new research organisations will have a strong commercial focus, with a mandate to translate science into real-world outcomes and commercial success. “It’s not enough to have great science we need that science to power start-ups, lift productivity, and create jobs. This is about turning research into results for New Zealand’s economy.” “These changes are about focus, outcomes, and value. We are investing in science that delivers for New Zealand — science that strengthens our economy, supports our environment, and builds resilience for the future,” Dr Reti says. “I’m confident these new leaders will help us deliver a science system that is more connected, more commercially focused, and better aligned with the needs of our nation.”

The Australian Forest Products Association and Forest Industries Federation of Western Australia wants the Western Australian Government to take immediate and further action against the Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB), a damaging tree pest that could seriously impact forestry industries and destroy trees and ecosystems from local gardens to national parks Australia-wide. Source: Timberbiz The PSHB, first detected in WA in 2021, is spreading through backyards, urban forests and native reserves across metropolitan Perth killing trees. FIFWA CEO Adele Farina said that in South Africa the ongoing management costs associated with the PSHB were in the billions of dollars. “We believe a national response may be warranted to contain the impact of this pest,” she said. “We urge WA and other governments to seriously consider the impact of this pest and act before the problem potentially gets out of control. “We’ll engage further with the WA Government, other state jurisdictions and the Commonwealth as required, in response to the PSHB threat and further immediate action on the issue.” Eradication and containment efforts need to be increased or it’s a matter of time before it moves south of Perth to the state’s production forests, or potentially nation-wide, killing many iconic trees, decimating Australian backyards and impacting forestry. The only effective treatment known is tree or limb removal so the WA Government, along with the Commonwealth and other jurisdictions need to be on notice about the serious biosecurity risk this Borer presents. It would be a travesty if governments don’t resource the PSHB response sufficiently. “AFPA and FIFWA have written to the WA Government to ensure appropriate resources and actions are being put in place with respect to requirements under the national Emergency Plan Pest Response to combat this significant exotic tree pest in Perth. We don’t want it spreading and impacting production forests in southern-WA or potentially other parts of the country,” AFPA Chief Executive Officer Diana Hallam said. “This is not just WA’s problem and we’re acutely aware that measures to eradicate PSHB through the national emergency plant pest arrangements haven’t been sufficient. If governments fail to up the ante and act decisively now, we risk setting a dangerous precedent. The cost of inaction won’t just be measured in trees lost, but also damage to ecosystems, biodiversity, communities and our ability to respond to future crises.”  

The New Zealand Timber Industry Federation (NZTIF) is calling on the Department of Conservation (DoC) to revise its procurement policy requiring that all timber for key government-funded projects such as Rākau Rangatira Phase Two located in Northland be sourced exclusively from FSC-certified forests. Source: Timberbiz While intended to ensure responsible sourcing, this requirement unfairly excludes hundreds of small forest owners, including farmers and regional woodlot managers who manage their forests sustainably but are not FSC-certified. This will result sawmills being unable to source logs from these small-scale woodlots to supply DoC projects when they may have had a strong relationship with the forest owner. According to FSC New Zealand, approximately 490,000 hectares of Forests is in the hands of small growers who are uncertified. “FSC was originally created to combat illegal or unsustainable logging in natural forests in under-regulated regions,” said Bruce Larsen, President of NZTIF. “That’s not New Zealand. We have one of the most advanced forest management regimes in the world, with strict compliance requirements under laws like the Resource Management Act, Climate Change Response Act, and the National Environmental Standards for Plantation Forestry.” DoC’s FSC-only policy imposes an unnecessary burden on small-scale forest owners, many of whom cannot justify the cost or complexity of joining an international certification system that offers little environmental or social uplift in the highly regulated New Zealand context. The Federation believes DoC’s current approach runs counter to the Government’s own messaging around supporting local, natural materials. “We welcomed the Government’s directive to use more New Zealand wool in public buildings. It’s time for a similar commitment to wood a ‘Wood is Good’ policy that supports local timber, encourages domestic processing, and keeps the value chain within New Zealand,” Mr Larsen said. Instead of creating barriers, the NZTIF urges DoC and other government departments to adopt a more inclusive and pragmatic procurement approach — one that recognises the integrity of New Zealand’s laws, the reality of small-scale forestry, and the importance of supporting regional economies. “New Zealand timber manufacturers, small forest owners, and large forest owners are all ready to contribute to a sustainable, value-added forestry future. But government policy needs to create opportunities — not shut the gate,” Mr Larsen said.  

Applications are open for the second round of the Tasmanian Government’s On-Island Processing Program to support more local value-adding for our wood and timber industry. Source: Timberbiz Round 2 will focus on Tasmania’s hardwood plantation timber, while also continuing to provide funding support for other types of timber, providing a total of $8.5 million of grant funding, with up to $2 million available per project. Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, said Tasmania’s increasing supply of plantation hardwood provided a major opportunity to grow the value of the wood and timber products sector. “Following the success of round 1 and given the importance of sustainable forestry to our economy, regional communities and local jobs, we have made an extra $5 million available through the program, taking the total round 2 funding to $8.5 million,” Mr Abetz said. “Processing locally grown timber right here in Tasmania not only value-adds but also creates jobs and opportunity, particularly in regional Tasmania.” Grants will be made available to eligible timber processors to implement processing projects with demonstrated feasibility, a strong business case and demonstrated value-adding to the resource. The new resource offers the opportunity to develop quality products such as: sawn timber, veneer, engineered wood products or new high value timber products. With Sustainable Timber Tasmania estimating around 125,000 cubic metres of pruned and unpruned millable plantation hardwood logs will be available per year over 10 years, round 2 of the On-Island Processing Program will encourage more local investment on plant and systems to increase the value of our wood, wood fibre and timber products. The On-Island Processing Program supports businesses looking to invest in equipment and process improvements aimed at capitalising on the strong ongoing demand for high-value products such as architectural and décor grade veneers, load bearing timbers, engineered wood products and quality timber furniture. In total, the Tasmanian Government has committed a total of $15 million to the On-Island Processing Program to grow the Tasmanian forestry sector’s on‑island processing capabilities. The first round of the Program was launched in 2021 with funding committed to seven projects. Applications are now open and will close on Thursday 31 July 2025 and should be submitted using the online SmartyGrants system

This week is Australian Made Week, and the Australian Forest Products Association is calling on consumers to buy Aussie made timber and wood-fibre products and support a sector that underpins local manufacturing, regional jobs, our local environment, and helps fight climate change. Source: Timberbiz “Around 180,000 Australians are either directly or indirectly employed by the supply chain of Australia’s forestry and forest products sector, with many of those jobs located in regional centres and rural Australia, keeping these places alive,” Chief Executive Officer of AFPA Diana Hallam said. “When consumers focus more on buying the locally made and manufactured, essential products we create, that means a stronger supply chain, a stronger sector and stronger communities. “We often find that consumers are very surprised just how many items essential for everyday life are made by our sector. Consider timber house-frames and furnishings like flooring and decking, cardboard packaging and tissue products, timber and particleboard furniture and shelving as well as magazine and news-print paper. There are so many examples. “When Australians buy Australian Made items, produced from Aussie grown and manufactured timber and wood-fibre, they’re supporting a great manufacturing industry, local jobs whether they’re in the forest, timber mill or in transport and logistics. Our sector also operates to world leading environmental standards, meaning consumers can have peace of mind that buying Australian means buying sustainable and supporting an industry that fights climate change. “Remember to look for the iconic green and gold kangaroo logo to be sure you’re buying Australian Made. You can be sure it’s a sign of quality and support for so much more than just one product. It’s support for towns, families, communities, the economy and environment. When Australians buy Australian – we all win.” New research from Roy Morgan reveals 73% of Australians would be willing to buy more Australian-made products to avoid reliance on imports, with seven in 10 (72%) willing to pay more for locally made goods. Australian Made Chief Executive Ben Lazzaro said recent global economic uncertainty and challenging market conditions have highlighted the importance of supporting Australia’s manufacturers and producers. “While global supply chains are shifting, this is a moment of opportunity for Australian brands to claim new space in both domestic and international markets – by leaning into what they do best – high quality production, sustainability, authenticity, and community values. One of the best ways to do that is through country-of-origin branding,” Mr Lazzaro said. The trusted Australian Made logo bearing the iconic green and gold kangaroo is one of the most recognised logos in Australia. It is used by around 4,500 businesses to promote their home-grown status. These businesses represent approximately 40,000 jobs and generate a combined annual revenue of around $8 billion. Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus OAM was named ambassador of Australian Made Week spotlighting products bearing the iconic Australian Made green and gold kangaroo logo.

Bombala’s timber mill has been sold to an NSW regional company that has promised uninterrupted operations and continuity for customers and employees. Source: Monaro Post The mill, which was purchased as a much smaller operation and expanded over 17 years by Korean company Dongwha Australia, is now owned by the Borg Group, a specialist timber and panel business based on the Central Coast. The sale was confirmed Monday by Borg Group CEO, Jim Snelson. The mill will trade under the name of Porta. Bombala based Snowy Monaro Regional Councillor, Bob Stewart, has welcomed the news of the sale and Borg’s commitment to the facility, which he said is a ‘major player’ for the town. “With 130 jobs alone at the mill and no government jobs to speak of anymore, Bombala relies big time on it and if it can get developed further, that would be great,” Cr Stewart said. “I will try to organise for the new owners to meet with council and I hope the council will support them in the future.” Cr Stewart also thanked the Dongwha company for its investment into Bombala, particularly for its role in supporting community organisations; from the local races, where it sponsored the main race in 2025, to the inaugural Australian National Busking Championships Bombala regional heat to various sports and community groups. Although the sale amount has not been disclosed, Marketscreener reported online that an undisclosed buyer agreed to acquire Dongwha Australia Holdings Pty Ltd from Dongwha Enterprise Co Ltd for 88.9 billion Korean (around $99 million Australian) on February 17, 2025. The sale to the Borg Group took effect from May 1. The decision was made public after months of speculation within the local community, which relies heavily on the mill for employment and purchase of local timber. Mr Snelson said The Borg Group was pleased to announce the acquisition and re-assured employees and customers that operations would continue without interruption. “Porta is committed to building on Dongwha’s strong legacy in Australia by maintaining product quality, delivering exceptional customer service, and fostering a safe working environment,” he said. “For over 17 years, the Bombala sawmill has been a trusted producer of high-value timber products, including decking, structural framing timber, and fencing. “This acquisition marks an important step in Borg’s continued expansion in the timber industry.” Mr Snelson said Porta was widely respected for its high-quality products, innovative solutions, flexible customer approach, and expert team. “The integration of Dongwha further strengthens Porta’s capabilities and supports its growth strategy,” he said. Dongwha Australia was founded in 2011 in Australia as Dongwha’s directly managed overseas production base through the acquisition of Willmott Timbers. Dongwha Australia’s core business area is lumbering. Its Bombala sawmill was built on government subsidies to boost its role in improving the regional economy. Last year, Dongwha Australia welcomed a NSW Government Forestry Industry Action Plan designed to outline the path the state would take to ensure a sustainable timber industry that aligned with the government’s key environmental priorities. Dongwha Australia team leader, Neville McInnes, told The Monaro Media Group that although the company had not yet been contacted by the new advisory panel, it was pleased the government had committed to the industry and had three key areas it wished to discuss. “They are a commitment to keeping roads open to guarantee the transport of timber between plantations and the mill; a commitment to the continued supply of softwood and a commitment to not losing what supply was already available. “We welcome the plan, absolutely,” Mr McInnes said. “We have 130 direct employees and are always looking for more workers. For every one direct job, three come off it, that’s 450 jobs feeding off the mill, without secondary jobs, so we estimate 750 jobs come out of the Dongwha site.”