AUSTRALIA — The Victorian government has announced additional support for timber workers and their communities ahead of the looming industry shutdown. Originally scheduled to be phased out by 2030, the Labor government announced in May it is bringing the date forward to the end native logging this year. Agriculture Minister Gayle Tierney announced the expansion of Victorian Forestry Worker Support Program, which will increase “worker top-up payments from up to $120,000 to $150,000”. …Ms Tierney revealed the Forestry Transition Fund is now open, which aims to create additional local jobs in impacted communities. The Sawmill Voluntary Transition Package has also been opened, which supports mill owners to “stay in the industry or switch to new sectors”. She also flagged the Harvest and Haulage Support Package will be available from next month, made available to forest contractors.

Additional coverage from the Victorian Forest Products Association (VFPA): Fallout from native forestry decision continues – VFPA welcomes transition package in principle, but is disappointed that it benefits some and punishes others