Australian paper manufacturers should take heart from news the Government will require big investors to use local products and materials. Source: Timberbiz
Timber communities have been concerned about rumblings that Federal Treasury will change the paper supply contracts for the Department of Human Services and Department of Defence from local product to cheaper imports.
However, it emerged that the Government is just weeks away from releasing a plan which will require big business to favour local products and suppliers.
“It would be incredibly hypocritical if the Government created one set of standards for business then operated to a completely different set for itself,” Coalition Forestry spokesman Senator Richard Colbeck said.
“Human Services Minister Senator Kim Carr was actually the former Industry Minister who presided over the closure of two paper mills Tasmania.
“He should understand only too well the pressures on Australian paper manufacturers and be scrutinising this decision very carefully.
“Similarly, Stephen Smith should have a watching brief over the supply arrangements for defence.
“Here is a chance for Labor to demonstrate in practical terms the rhetoric they run out on Australian manufacturing.”
