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Russell Broadbent calls for support of Australian hardwood over rising imports to protect regional jobs

Russell Broadbent urges support for Australia's sustainable hardwood industry, criticizing rising imports that undermine regional jobs and economies. He advocates for local sourcing to ensure economic benefits and long-term timber supply security.

By news@gippsland - 25th February 2025 - Back to News

Recent data shows that imports of hardwood to Australia are on the rise. And that's disappointing - especially when we have our own sustainable forestry industry right here at home. We know that Australia will keep using hardwood - for housing, schools, hospitals and so much more. Hardwood is an incredible material, renowned for its structure, strength, and versatility. It's a resource that simply cannot be replaced.

Russell Broadbent highlights rising hardwood imports, urging support for Australia's sustainable forestry industry to protect jobs and strengthen local supply

Not too long ago, the forestry industry was the backbone of regional towns, not just in my electorate of Monash, but right across Australia. Now, instead of sourcing timber locally, we're relying on imports. And that means regional Australia misses out on the economic benefits. All of this, because of an ideological stance that doesn't hold up when you look at the facts.

Because the reality is this, we're going to use hardwood in the future. So why not use Australian timber? By doing so, we can create jobs, support our regional economies, and take ownership of the risks. That's Justice - and the future we should be building - as I see it.

Pictures from Russell Broadbent MP website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com