The Hon. Nicola Centofanti, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Shadow Minister for Primary Industries (SA), The Hon. Ben Hood, Shadow Minister for Transport and Infrastructure (SA), Joint Media Release, 5 February 2025
The report of the Select Committee on Matters Relating to the Timber Industry in the Limestone Coast and Other Regions of South Australia has been tabled in Parliament, after 5 years of evidence over two parliamentary sessions.
Dr Nicola Centofanti, chair of the committee during the 55th session of Parliament, said she was pleased that the industry is finally seeing the results of a significant body of work.
“The timber industry has had a proud 150-year history here in South Australia and is the product of generations of hard working and dedicated innovators, both big and small,” The Hon Nicola Centofanti said.
“This report acknowledges some of the challenges and opportunities that the forest industry faces, and the committee has worked tirelessly to form evidence-based recommendations to Government to ensure the continued success of this vital industry.”
The committee published 17 recommendations covering aspects of the industry from transparency, infrastructure investment through to industry productivity innovations and the importance of water security.
Recommendations about water security included the committee calling on the establishment of a Parliamentary committee to investigate all aspects of water allocation planning and that the State Government work with the Federal Government to ensure primary industry sectors, including forestry, maintain equitable access to water resources.
Dr Centofanti said, “water resources are vital for the production of food and fibre, and we need to ensure that forestry has equitable access to these resources in order to grow the forestry estate into the future.”
Another recommendation included the need to prioritise the pursuit of a National Forest Industry Code of Conduct.
Shadow Minister for Transport and Infrastructure the Hon Ben Hood said, “A code of conduct will improve clarity and transparency of trade between foresters and processors, of which we heard significant evidence in favour of.”
The committee also chose to prioritise investment in road infrastructure to improve transport efficiency and minimise heavy vehicle maintenance costs.
“Investment in road infrastructure is an investment in ensuring South Australian resources find their way to market, and ensuring that our road infrastructure is maintained to a high standard allows for productivity and efficiency gains for the forest industry.”
The report also drew attention to the critical importance of encouraging career pathways for school students to participate in primary production in South Australia.
“Government needs to be working with the sector in ensuring the benefits and opportunities within the forest industry are presented to the next generation to ensure South Australia remains a strong player in this space,” said Dr Centofanti.
“The timber industry prides itself on innovation in technology, training and skills and is a presents a fantastic career opportunity for young South Australians, but young people need to see what they can be.”
