On Island Processing Program
Applications for round 2 funding are now open
The Tasmanian Government has committed a total of $15 million the On-Island Processing Program (the Program) to grow the Tasmanian forestry sector’s on‑island processing capabilities. The first round of the Program was launched in 2021 with funding committed to seven projects.
Applications are now open for the second round of the Forestry On-Island Processing Program. $8.5 million of grant funding is available under this Program to grow the Tasmanian forestry sector’s on-island processing capabilities, increase the value of Tasmanian wood, expand the state’s sovereign capabilities, reduce the need for imported forest-based products, and create employment opportunities.
A particular focus of the second round will be increasing the value of Tasmania’s new plantation hardwood resource, while also continuing to provide funding support to new, innovative uses for other types of timber.
This focus will be achieved with $5 million of the total funding pool reserved for projects which are primarily focussed on processing Tasmania’s hardwood plantation resource, supporting the transition to this new sustainable resource as it enters the supply chain in increasing volumes to the timber processing sector.
Grants will be made available to eligible timber processors to implement processing projects with demonstrated feasibility, a strong business case and demonstrated value-adding to the resource. The new resource offers the opportunity to develop quality products such as: sawn timber, veneer, engineered wood products or new high value timber products.
Projects which will be highly regarded are those best able to demonstrate viability and those providing the greatest increase in the value and/or return from Tasmania’s hardwood plantation.
Applications should be submitted using the online SmartyGrants system.
Contact
Any queries can be directed to the Resources Policy Branch via email: forests@stategrowth.tas.gov.au.