The South Australian Forest Products Association (SAFPA) welcomes the new joint State and Federal Government commitment of $3 million for research proposals to help develop forest and wood products industries in the Green Triangle, SAFPA CEO Nathan Paine said today.
“SAFPA has worked closely with the Malinauskas Government, especially the Minister for Forest Industries, The Honourable Clare Scriven, MLC, to promote investment in the innovation of forest products and to ensure future research and development continues in the South East,” Mr Paine said.
“The NIFPI model for managing research and development has been hugely successful and it’s critical the research centre continues in the Green Triangle, which is home to nearly 20 per cent of Australia’s plantation estate and is recognised as a world class sawmilling and forest product manufacturing operation.”
The Mount Gambier NIFPI Centre has partnered with a range of institutions, including University of South Australia on numerous research projects with a prime focus on health and safety, improving industry productivity, recognition of carbon storage and fire management.
“This announcement builds on the Government’s election commitment of $12.5 million in research and development as well as $2.5 million for a new Centre of Excellence in Mount Gambier. The Government’s ongoing support will ensure forest industries continues to grow from strength to strength.
“With thousands of South Australians proudly employed in the forestry, this increased research and development funding means the industry and our workers can remain at forefront of future industry innovation,” Mr Paine concluded.
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