Release of new timber plantation strategy
An improved land-use planning framework is part of a new strategy for the Queensland timber industry after the privatisation of Forestry Plantations Queensland.
The strategy focuses on a change of role for the Bligh Government from direct ownership of timber plantations to one of leadership and direction-setting.
Minister for Primary Industries, Tim Mulherin, says there are inconsistent planning and assessment processes across Queensland which have generated uncertainty for potential investors.
He says the government will develop a timber plantation assessment code to deliver regulatory consistency and certainty for new timber plantations. The code will encourage private investment in commercial plantations in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.
The strategy comprises five key points: an improved land use planning framework for plantations; supporting legislative and policy frameworks; facilitating new investment in plantations; targeted industry development support; and strengthening community support for timber plantations.
The timber industry in Queensland contributes about $4 billion annually to the state’s economy and directly employs about 18,000 people in regional areas. The strategy is available here.
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