Tasmanian Forests Agreement Receives Royal Assent

The Tasmanian Forests Agreement is now a reality with the Legislation passed by Parliament given Royal Assent.

The Minister for Energy and Resources, Bryan Green, said the Tasmanian Forests Agreement Act 2013 paved the way for a sustainable forest industry and significant conservation outcomes.

“Royal Assent will allow more than $200 million of additional funding to begin flowing to workers, businesses and communities affected by the downturn in the forest industry, and for the management of new reserves,” Mr Green said.

“This includes $100 million for economic diversification and regional development projects over the next four years.

“Hundreds of jobs have already been created through the original $24 million and, with additional funds now flowing a lot faster, we will be able to achieve even more in the short term particularly in regions most affected by the downturn in the forestry industry.

“The Government has never lost sight of the need to help diversify the economies of communities during this challenging transition.

“The Liberal Party in Tasmania have no alternative and are not offering one cent of support for the forest industry.

“The Government provided $33 million in this year’s State Budget to get on with the job of implementing the Tasmanian Forest Agreement.

“Without this level of Government support we would be putting at serious risk the future of Tasmania’s forest industry and Forestry Tasmania.

“Through the Tasmanian Forests Agreement we are providing vital support to public forestry and workers and communities.
Bryan Green Deputy Premier Monday 03rd Jun 2013