A coalition of timber industry groups has been formed in Victoria, Australia, in response to the state government’s plans to cut the hardwood timber harvest by 30%.
The newly-formed Sustainable (hardwood) Timber Industry Coalition, comprising groups in timber processing, retailing, building and furniture manufacture, believes a harvest reduction will have serious implications across the industry.
It wants the hardwood industry to be placed on a sustainable footing backed by state and federal government aid. A draft charter says it will support and promote responsible use of Victorian hardwoods in value-added products to drive growth and employment.
Meanwhile, A$9m of government funding will be spent on town centre improvements and tourism initiatives in Victorian timber communities facing job losses.
