In responding to the Deloitte report released Make it big Adelaide, AFPA SA Manager John Stokes says it confirms the importance of forestry industry to the South Australian economy. Source: Timberbiz
“As part of the agribusiness sector, Forestry contributes $1.5billion to the state’s economy and employs directly and indirectly over 22,000 people” Mr Stokes said.
“The Deloitte report shows that agriculture, forestry and fishing contribute more value per person in SA than in Victoria; more than any other sector.
“AFPA is working hard to ensure that policies and initiatives are put in place by all levels of government to support the continued growth of the forest, wood and paper industries. This is particularly important for regional SA.
“The industry and the jobs it creates will benefit from policies and strategies that will support the industry. This will assist in driving increased productivity, competitiveness and profitability resulting in economic growth.”
AFPA continues to advocate at both state and federal level that getting the policy framework right is critical for the industry particularly in the areas of energy, water, transport and infrastructure.
Mr Stokes said that 2018 is an election year in SA and AFPA will soon be releasing its election policies which will be seeking to see including in all parties agendas.
These are policies which will help drive sustainable economic growth for both metropolitan and regional communities.
“We will be talking and actively working with all stakeholders to ensure that AFPA’s message is understood but just as importantly, that we have tangible solutions and recommendations to fix some of the industry’s current roadblocks,” he said.
