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The Australian Forest Contractor’s Association has welcomed the strong statement of support and commitment for Australia’s sustainable forestry industries made by the Coalition at the weekend. Source: Timberbiz The release of a policy statement on Australia’s forest industry has confirmed that a Dutton Coalition Government will not support any further bans on native forestry, and secure ongoing managed and regulated timber harvesting by establishing Permanent Timber Production Zones. Welcoming the commitments AFCA Chief Executive Officer Tim Lester said these policies would provide much needed certainty for businesses, hundreds of communities and tens of thousands of workers. “Production forestry from our regrowth native estate is sustainable and renewable, with positive payoffs for communities and the environment,” Mr Lester said. “The alternative is exporting our jobs, importing more timber and Australian taxpayers spending more to manage our forests. “Jobs in forestry are stable, sustainable and high quality, supporting rural and regional communities around Australia. The World Bank tells us that the overall economic impact of forest industries is $2.50 for every dollar generated by the industry. “We know from data collected by the NSW National Parks that managed timber harvesting poses no threat to koalas or other species. “We are pleased to see this practical approach to protecting the future of our sustainable industry and look forward to receiving similar assurances from the Australian Labor Party during the election campaign.”