Long-standing service to FWPA
Professor Tony Arnel will complete his final term as Deputy Chair of Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) this month, marking the close of nine years of service to the organisation and the wider forestry and wood products industry.
Tony joined the FWPA Board in October 2016. Since then, he has been a steady voice for evidence-based decision-making and long-term planning, contributing to FWPA’s work across research, standards, sustainability and industry engagement.
A career shaped by sustainable building leadership
With a career spanning sustainable architecture, regulatory leadership and international advocacy, Tony has played a central role in the evolution of green building in Australia and abroad. He is a founding director of the Green Building Council of Australia and served as its chair from 2007 to 2012. He also chaired the World Green Building Council between 2008 and 2011, overseeing its expansion into a global network representing more than 70 national councils.
Tony’s experience includes over a decade as both the Victorian Building Commissioner and Plumbing Industry Commissioner, as well as time as Global Director of Sustainability at Norman, Disney & Young. He is currently a Professor at Deakin University, contributing to industry-academic collaboration on sustainable development.
Strengthening timber’s role in decarbonisation
Throughout his time with FWPA, Tony has been an advocate for improving the settings that support timber’s role in reducing the carbon footprint of construction. His long involvement in the sector has given him a clear view of both the opportunities and challenges facing Australia’s forestry and wood products industries, particularly in relation to supply, manufacturing capability and public understanding of plantation forestry.
FWPA Chair Craig Taylor said Tony’s leadership has supported the organisation during an important period for the sector. “Tony has provided stability and insight through a time of significant change,” he said. “His experience across the built environment has been invaluable.”
Reflecting on nine years of contribution
Reflecting on his time with FWPA, Tony said:
“FWPA is an organisation that takes its responsibility to industry seriously. It has been a privilege to contribute to work that is grounded in evidence and directed at strengthening Australia’s future timber capability.”
FWPA CEO Andrew Leighton acknowledged Tony’s long-term commitment to evidence-based progress. “Tony has championed the role of timber in lowering construction emissions and has consistently elevated the importance of research and practical solutions,” Andrew said. “We are grateful for his service and the significant impact he has made.”
Tony will attend his final Board meeting on 19 November, marking the end of his term as Deputy Chair. FWPA thanks him for his service and his long-standing commitment to advancing sustainable building and Australia’s timber capability.
