New report: Forestry's economic contribution to Tasmania {AU]Friday 4 Sep 2026
The report, Economic contribution of the forestry industry to Tasmania, commissioned by FWPA and prepared by BDO with coordination support from the Tasmanian Forestry Hub, provides an updated evidence base for industry, government and regional stakeholders. It quantifies the value generated by forestry activity across softwood plantations, hardwood plantations and native forests, including direct economic activity and flow-on benefits through the broader supply chain. In 2023/24, Tasmania’s forestry industry contributed an estimated $1.47 billion to gross state product, equivalent to around 4 per cent of the state economy. The industry also supported 7,590 full-time equivalent jobs, including almost 3,900 direct jobs and a further 3,700 jobs supported through supply chain and household spending effects. Total output was estimated at $2.87 billion, with $660 million in household income flowing to Tasmanian workers and families. Kevin Peachey, FWPA’s Head of Built Environment and Statistics & Economics Programs said “this report gives industry a clear, evidence-based picture of the forest industry’s contribution to Tasmania. It shows the sector is not only a major employer and economic contributor, but also an important part of the regional supply chains, communities and businesses that rely on forest and wood products activity.” “FWPA invests in this type of work to support informed decision-making. By collecting robust data, economic analysis and industry insights, we help members and stakeholders understand where value is being created, where pressures are emerging and where future opportunities may lie.” The analysis highlights the strength and diversity of Tasmania’s forestry base. Softwood plantations generated the largest contribution by output, at $1.31 billion, while hardwood plantations contributed $812 million and native forests contributed $746 million. The report also shows the industry’s importance across regional Tasmania, with activity supporting jobs and economic value in the North-East, North-West and South regions. Importantly, the report looks beyond headline figures. It maps activity across the supply chain, including growers, primary processors, harvest and haulage contractors, silviculture, transport, wholesale, retail and export services. It also identifies non-timber values associated with forestry operations, including carbon credits, conservation areas and recreation-related uses. FWPA Statistics and Economics Program Manager Erick Hansnata said “the report gives industry a practical tool for planning and engagement.” “Industry can use this report to support investment discussions, regional advocacy, workforce planning and supply chain conversations,” Mr Hansnata said. “It provides a shared evidence base that helps explain forestry’s role in Tasmania’s economy and the benefits that flow well beyond the forest gate.” The report also forecasts total economic contributions through to 2025/26, helping industry interpret short-term movements and plan for future conditions. While activity is likely to have softened slightly in 2024/25, most measures are forecast to recover to, or exceed, 2023/24 levels by 2025/26. FWPA is an industry-owned, not-for-profit Rural Research and Development Corporation (RDC) for the forest and wood products industry. Partnering with the Australian Government and industry stakeholders, we invest in research, development and extension (RD&E) initiatives and marketing to improve the productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability of our industry. This report reinforces FWPA’s role in translating complex industry activity into practical intelligence that can be used by members, policymakers, regional leaders and supply chain partners. View Report Source & image credit: FWPA  | ||
Copyright 2004-2026 © Innovatek Ltd. All rights reserved. |
