A new Pulp and Paper Industry Strategy Group will be formed to undertake a review of the industry and develop a plan to encourage innovation and attract investment in pulp and paper manufacturing in Australia.
Members of the Strategy Group will include senior representatives from the leading pulp and paper companies, unions, and all levels of government, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr announced today.
The group will be overseen by key industry figures, Mr Jim Henneberry, Executive General Manager of Australian Paper and Mr Michael O’Connor, National Assistant Secretary of the CFMEU’s Forestry and Furnishing Products Division.
“The pulp and paper manufacturing sector employs some 19,000 people and contributes around $1.3 billion a year to the Australian economy,” Senator Carr said.
"It is an important industry, particularly in regional areas, so it is vital we get the balance right between environmental concerns and economic activity in order to take Australia forward on a sustainable basis.
"The industry is undergoing a period of rationalisation, particularly in meeting the challenges of the current global recession.
"We need a full and frank assessment of the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, which is what this Review will provide.
"Industry and Government need to work together to create an operating environment where it makes good business sense for international firms to invest in Australia.
"Innovation and investment are the keys to achieving a world-class pulp and paper industry.”
The Strategy Group will be chaired by Mr Stephen Payne, Head of the Manufacturing Division in the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, with Mr Henneberry and Mr O’Connor as Deputy Co-Chairs.
The Strategy Group will report its findings by November 2009.
Terms of Reference and a full membership list for the Pulp and Paper Industry Strategy Group are available at www.innovation.gov.au/pulpandpaper
Media contacts: Catriona Jackson, Minister's Office, 0417 142 238
Mark Durrant, Department, 02 6213 7500 or 0403 137 481