Stakeholders give big tick in independent review

Some 84 per cent of Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) stakeholders rated their experience with FWPA as ‘above average’ or ‘excellent’ in the recent Independent Performance Review.

Covering the period from August 2017 to January 2021, the Independent Performance Review found that FWPA delivers strong benefits to stakeholders, is highly collaborative and is well regarded within the industry, to which it makes a significant contribution.

FWPA met with strong support and positive feedback on its engagement with industry associations, the Australian Government and stakeholders. FWPA is notably strong in the area of consumer tracking and market research, using strong brands to build support for the forestry and wood products industry through messaging around sustainability, usability and cost.

Consultations were conducted with approximately 50 key industry stakeholders across the forest and wood products supply chain, including growers, processors, manufacturers and importers; industry peak body representatives; FWPA Board members, management and staff; members of the Grower Research Advisory Committee; Commonwealth officers; researchers; and other industry participants. An online survey was offered alongside this proactive consultation, and it attracted 113 responses.

The involvement of stakeholders during these reviews helps FWPA ensure it continues to fulfil its mission of growing the market for forest and wood products, increasing productivity across the value chain, and ensuring positive environmental and social outcomes.

By sharing their thoughts and insights through the Review, the forestry and wood products industry stakeholders play a key role in guiding the future direction of FWPA.