South East and Central Queensland Forestry Hub funding extended to 2025

November 16, 2021

South East and Central Queensland is set to benefit from $900,000 in new Australian Government funding to support growth in its forestry industries.

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the Government’s investment in the Regional Forestry Hubs was a show of faith in our forestry industries and the benefits that they deliver for towns such as Warwick, Stanthorpe, Goondiwindi, Surat, Mitchell, Roma, Miles, Chinchilla, Dalby, Kingaroy and Nanango.

“South East and Central Queensland is a key forestry area with strong potential for growth and innovation, with skilled forestry workers, transport routes and processing plants,” said Mr Littleproud.

“The hub is assessing production forestry resources, processing capacity and infrastructure needs and limitations and finding ways to support innovation and growth in our region.

Growing the plantation estate takes time and this funding demonstrates the federal Government’s commitment to long-term, sustainable investment in forestry in South East and Central Queensland.

“There is an opportunity for the region to explore options for product value adding as it has existing softwood and hardwood processing capabilities.”

“This new funding will secure the future of our forestry hub and its important work with industry, state and local governments, key stakeholders and the community.

“It builds upon the $1 million of funding the hub received when established in 2019.

The Government is committed to delivering positive outcomes for the industry Australia-wide and are backing those who rely on the productivity of the sector every step of the way.

The Government is providing more than $10.6 million over 4 years for existing Regional Forestry Hubs and establishing two new hubs in Eden NSW, and the Northern Territory.