Timber industry

Comer stated that the government supports a sustainable forestry industry that balances environmental protection with economic prosperity, supporting both native forestry and plantations. Comer highlighted a $300 million investment to improve capacity and drive innovation, including funding for the National Institute for Forest Products Innovation and workforce training programs. Comer emphasised the importance of partnering with First Nations peoples and maintaining a stable national framework through the Forestry Ministers' Meeting to ensure certainty for workers and businesses.

Hogan distinguished between pine plantations and selective hardwood harvesting, arguing that the latter is conducted using world-leading environmental standards. Hogan claimed that state bans on harvesting lead to overgrown forests, increased weed infestations, and reduced mobility for koalas, thereby undermining conservation goals. Hogan also argued that the absence of harvesters removes essential fire trail maintenance and equipment support during bushfires, increasing fire risks. Hogan warned that domestic bans force reliance on overseas timber imports from countries with less rigorous sustainability practices.

Urquhart affirmed government support for sustainable native forestry and plantations, noting that native forests provide wood products that plantations cannot supply. Urquhart cited the economic contribution of the native hardwood sector, which contributed $278 million to the national economy during 2022-23, and highlighted local industry examples in Tasmania. Urquhart stated that while day-to-day management is a state responsibility, the federal government provides a stable framework through Regional Forest Agreements and has invested $300 million in industry innovation and plantation establishment.

Aldred expressed concern over the decline of the hardwood industry in Victoria due to state government policies, arguing this has decimated the forest estate available for harvesting. Aldred warned that the loss of timber workers, many of whom are volunteer firefighters, increases fire risks in drought-affected regions. Aldred noted that local mills are now importing timber from other states and countries, which she described as poor economic and environmental management. Aldred supported the motion, emphasising the need for a manufacturing future and the renewable nature of replanted hardwood.

Swanson highlighted the importance of hardwood for rural fencing and construction, noting her personal connection to the industry through family business. Swanson reiterated the government's $300 million investment package, including funds for workforce training and regional forestry hubs, to secure long-term jobs. Swanson emphasised that the federal government provides a stable framework via Regional Forest Agreements while leaving day-to-day management to states, and praised First Nations peoples' historical role in forest management through cultural burning.