In this episode of WoodChat, we speak with Joseph Lawrence, Executive Director of Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI), about the institute’s first year, its forward strategy and the shared vision AFWI holds with Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) to strengthen Australia’s forest and wood products sector.
Joseph reflects on his engineering and higher education background, and the years he spent working on emerging technologies, innovation and training before moving into government. Coming into the sector as an outsider has given him a unique vantage point on the cultural differences between universities, industry and government. He talks openly about how these competing priorities can create tension but also present opportunities for deeper collaboration, particularly when AFWI and FWPA work together to align research and industry needs.
We explore AFWI’s newly finalised five-year strategy, which focuses on four national priorities:
- Healthier, more productive forests
- Maximising wood fibre through value-added manufacturing
- Climate solutions
- Engineered wood for modern housing
Joseph discusses how scientific research underpins the wood products industry’s position as an advanced manufacturing sector, along with the additional work that supports this, including regional development, capability growth and long-term research investment. He draws parallels with the energy sector where he has significant experience, particularly in areas such as carbon value and emerging net zero opportunities.
The conversation also covers how AFWI plans to work hand-in-hand with FWPA, building on complementary strengths and shared objectives. Joseph outlines upcoming AFWI projects, the role of the three regional Research Centres, and the opportunity to coordinate research, skills, innovation and commercial outcomes through a collaborative approach.
For listeners across the sector, this episode offers clarity on how AFWI and FWPA can work together to deliver stronger forest health, better utilisation of wood fibre and more sustainable housing and climate outcomes for Australia.
Featuring:
• Joseph Lawrence, Executive Director, Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI)
