Tasmania’s premier timber industry takes another leap forward with the recent inauguration of a state-of-the-art processing facility at Koppers Wood Products.
This project, realised with funding support from the Tasmanian Government’s On-Island Processing Program, aims to elevate the presence of locally sourced wood in public infrastructure and construction.
Minister for Business, Industry, and Resources, Eric Abetz, lauded the initiative as a significant step in promoting local timber production and processing.
“I congratulate Koppers Wood Products on this outstanding project, which aligns with incentives under our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future for on-island processing,” he said.
Abetz reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Tasmania’s forest industry, which employs over 5,000 households across the state and contributes more than $1.2 billion annually to the local economy.
“Our policies and programs are ensuring this fantastic material is produced locally and considered for all major public building projects,” he added.
This focus includes applications ranging from industrial-grade timber, such as Koppers power poles, to wood’s use in innovative, aesthetically pleasing construction designs.
The government’s $5 million boost to the On-Island Processing Program reflects a strong dedication to enhancing the economic and environmental impact of Tasmania’s timber industry.
In addition, the Tasmanian Wood Encouragement Policy has been updated to support the innovative application of wood, creating fresh opportunities for the state’s unique timber products.
“Our iconic timbers are increasingly showcased in pioneering developments like the University of Tasmania’s Northern Transformation Project and the MyState Bank Arena redevelopment,” said Minister Abetz.
“I look forward to seeing more high value innovative products being created and used by architects, builders and developers, spurred on by our On-Island Processing Program and our Tasmanian Wood Encouragement Policy.”
The new Tasmanian Wood Encouragement Policy, accessible at www.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/forestry, is part of the government’s broader vision to drive sustainable growth and maximise the value of Tasmania’s timber resources.
