Summary
This report analysed the economic contribution of the NSW hardwood timber industry to the state’s economy. It examined the full supply chain including primary production, primary and secondary processing, and wholesale distribution. The analysis used industry surveys, datasets from ABARES, ABS and Input–Output (IO) modelling to estimate the industry’s contribution in 2021–22. The economic analysis within this report focuses on four key regions: North East, Southern, Western, and Greater Sydney which included public and private forestry together making up the NSW hardwood timber industry. The findings showed that the NSW hardwood timber industry was one of the largest employers and hardwood-producing sectors in Australia, generating significant income, economic activity, and employment across the state.
Overall, the industry have contributed approximately $2.9 billion in gross revenue, $1.1 billion in gross value added, and 8,900 full-time equivalent jobs in 2021-22. The North East region was identified as the largest contributor, followed by Southern, Western, and Greater Sydney, highlighting the industry’s substantial direct and indirect economic impact.
Acknowledgement of funding
This report was commissioned by the North East NSW Regional Forestry Hub with funding from the Australian Government, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
Disclaimer
Reports prepared for Regional Forestry Hubs, and any recommendations contained in the reports, are provided as received by the Hub and are not endorsed positions of the Hub. They do not constitute Australian Government policy.
