Native Forest Transition Programs
The WA Government's $80 million Native Forestry Transition Plan was announced in September 2021 to provide support to native forestry workers, businesses and communities.
The WA Government recognises the significant contribution that the native forestry industry has on our State and the livelihoods of skilled workers in our regional communities and their families.
Business Support Programs
The Western Australian Government reached an agreement with the Forest Industries Federation WA (FIFWA) on a $26.9 million Business Transition Program (BTP). The BTP aims to provide funding support to eligible businesses currently operating in Western Australia that will be transitioning their operations following the end of native logging from January 2024.
The program includes an Industry Restructure Payment, which will be based on contract volumes. Businesses can use this payment at their discretion to support activities such as diversification or to exit the industry. Sawmills and harvesters will also be eligible to receive further support of up to $225,000 for redundancy payments, site clean-up and equipment reimbursement.
The BTP is only accessible to those businesses with a current native timber production contract with the Forest Products Commission (FPC), who have pre-registered by the 4 March 2022 deadline and that otherwise meet the specified Eligibility Criteria.
Firewood and Auction Contract Closure Support
This program (Program 4) has been designed to support businesses with firewood and auction only contracts.
This process will run separately to the other programs and will be opened following the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions' Forest Management Plan 2024-2033 process.
Under the Business Transition Program, firewood processors will be eligible for funding support of $50,000 if they do not win a future contract and exit the industry.
Other timber businesses
For second tier businesses who do not have a direct contractual relationship with the Forest Products Commission, there will be further opportunities for support within the Industry and Community Development Programs.
