National Open Call for Research – Now Open for Applications

Applications are now open for AFWI’s National Open Call for Research, inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for projects that deliver transformative, industry-focused research to support Australia’s forestry and forest products industries.

This call seeks innovative ideas with commercial potential, tackling industry challenges or emerging opportunities.

This round introduces a two-stage application process—an initial EOI stage followed by invited full proposals—designed to streamline submissions, strengthen industry engagement, and support high-quality proposals.

Find the guidelines and application process here. 

To learn more, join our information webinar on Thursday, 13 March at 2pm AEDT, register here. 

Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins announced the call and encouraged industry and researchers to work together to develop proposals with an end-user focus.  

“Research like this is how we keep our forestry industry competitive, sustainable and able to face challenges head-on," Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP.

“Australia’s forestry industry has enormous potential, and I want to see it grow and thrive."

Read the announcement here.

AFWI Research Centres set to drive innovation

AFWI’s three Research Centres—hosted by the University of the Sunshine Coast, the University of Melbourne, and the University of Tasmania—are now established, and research activities are about to commence with industry and research partners across Australia in multiple states. 

Each Centre brings unique expertise and strong industry connections, supporting research that will help shape the future of Australia’s forestry and forest products sector.

• University of the Sunshine Coast – Focusing on sustainable forest management, innovative land use, and advanced timber products, with a particular strength in tropical and subtropical forestry.
• University of Melbourne – Leading research into climate-smart forestry, industry development, and long-term capacity building to support a sustainable future.
• University of Tasmania – Exploring ways to reduce carbon emissions, improve land management, and drive innovation in timber applications and bioproducts.
  
  Picture: AFWI Research Centre leads L-R: Professor Mark Brown, University of the Sunshine Coast, Professor Patrick Baker, University of Melbourne and Dr Dean Williams, University of Tasmania. 

Farewell to Dean

With the establishment of the University of Tasmania-hosted Research Centre and Dr Joseph Lawrence commencing as AFWI’s new Executive Director in mid-January, we also take a moment to acknowledge Dr Dean Williams for his leadership as Acting Director during AFWI's start-up phase over the past 12 months. 

His contributions have been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing to work with him in this new capacity as AFWI's UTAS Research Centre Director. 

Thank you, Dean!

Reflecting on an Incredible Year at AFWI

As we approach the one-year anniversary of AFWI’s official launch (12 March), it’s a great time to reflect on our progress.

Our launch event in Launceston brought together over 100 people from industry, research, and government to explore the exciting opportunities that AFWI holds for Australia’s forestry and forest products sector.

In just one year, AFWI has already achieved significant milestones, including the launch of our National Open Call for Research and the establishment of strong collaborations with industry partners across the country. These efforts are helping to drive innovation and deliver tangible outcomes that support the future of the sector.

One of the highlights of the launch was a thought-provoking speech by Molly Marshall, Agriforester from Private Forests Tasmania, who spoke about the endless possibilities AFWI holds for the industry. Her inspiring words captured the potential of AFWI to foster innovation and drive meaningful growth across Australia’s forestry sector.

One year on, AFWI remains committed to building on our progress and strengthening our partnerships to support positive change across the sector.

AFWI Team Visits Reliance Forest Fibre and Neville Smith Products

In February, the AFWI team visited Reliance Forest Fibre’s Eucalyptus nitens coup in Hounville, where we had the opportunity to see eucalypt plantations and harvesting in action. Dan Ryan guided us through the operations, offering valuable insights into the process of managing and harvesting eucalyptus for sustainable forestry practices.

We also toured Neville Smith Products’ sawmill at Southwood, where we observed their pallet production line. Brett Stevenson and Darren Johnson took us through the entire process, from log to finished product, ready for their customer. It was an excellent showcase of the innovation and efficiency of timber processing for various industries.

A big thank you to Dan Ryan, Brett Stevenson, Darren Johnson, and the teams at Reliance Forest Fibre and Neville Smith Products for taking the time to host us and share their expertise. These visits were a fantastic opportunity to strengthen our understanding of the industry and reinforce the importance of ongoing collaboration between industry, research and forestry practitioners.