An additional $8.9 million of Australian Government funding will boost 9 Regional Forestry Hubs across the country to support growth in the forest industries in their region.

Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said the Australian Government’s investment in the Regional Forestry Hubs was a show of faith in our forest industries and the benefits that they deliver for regional communities and the Australian economy.

“The Australian Government is providing more than $10.6 million over 4 years for existing Regional Forestry Hubs and the establishment of two new hubs in Eden NSW, and the Northern Territory,” Minister Littleproud said.

“We are 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.

“This allocation of funding is going to Regional Forestry Hubs in North East NSW, Central West NSW, South West Slopes NSW, Gippsland VIC, Green Triangle, North QLD, South East and Central QLD, South West WA and Tasmania.

“These key forestry areas across the country have strong potential for growth and innovation, with skilled forestry workers, transport routes and processing plants.”

Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam said the Regional Forestry Hubs bring together communities, industry and governments to unlock opportunities and address challenges in each region.

“The hub model empowers each region to identify and assess their local issues and develop local solutions, while benefitting from working alongside other hubs across Australia,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.

“This is all about getting the right trees, at the right scale, in the right places.

“I am really pleased with the way the hubs are working together and building momentum across the country, and they have been enormously popular with the industry.

“The sector has faced numerous challenges over the last couple of years, but our forest industries are resilient and we’re working with the sector to secure its future.

“Two new hubs are also coming online: the recently established Northern Territory Regional Forestry Hub and a hub in the Eden region which is in the final stages of development.

“Together we’re working to build a strong and sustainable future for Australia’s forest industries.”