Open call to make a difference in forestry
The Albanese Labor Government is inviting forestry industry and researchers to pitch their ideas for part of $5 million in grant funding.
The next Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) National Open Call for forest research opens today until 14 April 2025.
The Albanese Labor Government is investing $300 million in the future of the forestry industry, which includes over $100 million for AFWI.
Research through this round of funding can include climate change solutions, sustainable forests, and making the most out of our available wood fibre.
Now is the time for industry and researchers to put their heads together and develop industry-driven research proposals with an end-user focus.
The successful projects will have matching funding from industry or other sources.
Last year’s call resulted in 8 successful projects sharing the first $5 million grant and unlocking $8.3 million of matching investment from industry and research partners.
Details on the projects supported in the first round are available at Research projects – Australian Forest and Wood Innovations.
For more information on the second round, visit https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/forestry/national/australian-forest-and-wood-innovations or https://www.afwi.au/research/national-open-call/
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP:
“Research like this is how we keep our forestry industry competitive, sustainable and able to face challenges head-on.
“Australia’s forestry industry has enormous potential, and I want to see it grow and thrive. The sector is a vital economic contributor and a huge source of jobs in my home state of Tasmania.
“Last year’s projects are researching practical solutions to a range of challenges, from finding Australian timber species for sports flooring and even finding ways to stop pest animals from eating seedlings.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what the next crop of researchers will discover.”
Quotes attributable to Executive Director, Australian Forest and Wood Innovations, Dr Joseph Lawrence:
“This call is about funding innovative ideas that can deliver real commercial outcomes and help solve industry challenges.
“We’re looking for research that will make a tangible difference, whether by strengthening local manufacturing, supporting sustainable forestry practices, or driving the transition to a circular bioeconomy.
“This round introduces a two-stage application process. The first stage invites Expressions of Interest, with selected applicants progressing to a full proposal submission.
“The new process, informed by industry and researcher feedback, is designed to streamline applications, enhance industry alignment, and maximise real-world impact.
“By introducing an EOI stage, we’re ensuring early engagement with industry and giving applicants an opportunity to refine their proposals before moving to the next step.
“This will help attract bold, high-quality ideas that directly address industry needs.”
Quotes attributable to Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) CEO, Diana Hallam:
“After the success of the First Round, I’m excited to see what transformative ideas are proposed through the Second National Open Call.”
“I encourage anyone with initiatives that will enhance the productivity and profitability of Australia’s forest industries both now and in coming decades to come forward.
“I am confident industry is united in wanting to ensure the $100 million investment called for by AFPA and delivered by the Australian Government creates the products, jobs and climate solutions needed to decarbonise our economy and turbo charge this great Australian industry.”