Insights from a broad cross-section of members and stakeholders were a key input to the development of FWPA’s soon to be released 5-year Strategic Plan – a plan that is designed to offer a compelling vision for the future of the industry. Here are the key takeaways from a stakeholder survey ahead of its March release.
A “clean sheet” review of the plan was initiated by FWPA’s Board of Directors in 2021 in response to changes in drivers affecting the forest and wood products sector in Australia, including climate change, political & legislative developments, environmental concerns, labour shortages, inflation, and supply chain issues.
Consultation played a central role in the planning process. Iterations of the strategic plan were developed and socialised with a dedicated industry reference group, the FWPA Board, employees, members, and key industry stakeholders including the Australia Forest Products Association (AFPA), Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia (EWPAA), Australian Timber Importers’ Federation (ATIF) and Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
In addition, the development of a new plan was promoted industry wide with an invitation to complete a survey designed to elicit sector opportunities, threats, and priorities. Insightful responses were received from a cross-section of stakeholders, and I’d like to thank all those who generously provided their valuable time by participating in the survey.
The strength of our new strategic plan draws heavily on the shared expertise of the industry, and this has helped to ensure it is highly relevant, achievable, and appropriately focused.
Feedback gathered through the survey was coupled with insights gained during my 2022 visits to various member and stakeholder sites around Australia, where I had the opportunity to hear firsthand views and expectations of FWPA.
Stakeholders were asked; “What are the words you would use to describe the sector as you would like it to be in 10 years’ time?” The following quotes illustrate key sentiments that were raised.
“Respected; recognised as science-based and responsible; innovative developer of new products (non-fossil fuel and plastic based) and recognised as an important element of climate change response initiatives (carbon sequestration).”
“Softwood plantation area expanded significantly, and industry recognised for role in carbon sequestration, which can be monetised, productivity increased.”
“A growing, progressive part of the new circular economy, essential for climate change, recognised by all as an environmentally friendly and sustainable crop that supports wildlife diversity.”
“Inspiration and entrepreneurial; collaboration between ALL stakeholders; high end and high yield value adding; world-renowned cutting edge / applied research and engineered and construction material of choice.”
“Vibrant, diverse, innovative, The Ultimate Renewable, profitable, sustainable, legitimate and transparent in terms of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”
“Lead the world with respect to valuing carbon in a forestry perspective.”
“FWPA needs to continue to lead the industry as it has done with its work on building standards.”
A word cloud was generated to present a visual summary of industry priorities and the key challenges identified by stakeholders. The bigger the word the more commonly it occurred.
FWPA plans to continue to tap into support and input from stakeholders to ensure the company remains flexible to allow adjustments as necessary. The goal is a long-term vision for industry growth that can only be achieved through ongoing industry collaboration.
The new 2023-2028 Strategic Plan will be released in March and will be available for download from the FWPA website.
