SOUTH Australia’s forest industry stakeholders are encouraged to take part in a survey to inform the new State Government about road issues affecting the sector.
The survey launched by Primary Industries Minister Tim Whetstone aims to uncover issues affecting road freight productivity across the forest industry supply chain.
The survey is seeking input across key areas, including issues relating to the movement of forestry machinery on public roads, either travelling on the road or on a truck, and improvements in heavy vehicle access along specific routes in the state, such as increases in allowable vehicle combinations.
Part of the Improving Road Transport for Forestry project, the survey will also focus on the key “first and last mile” routes – short portions of public roads that have restrictions regarding the type and size of vehicle combinations allowed.
Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Tim Whetstone said he wanted to hear from industry to understand what could be done to help improve productivity.
“The forestry industry is an important sector for South Australia, with the sale of goods and services worth $2.3b each year for the state,” Mr Whetstone said.
“We want to know what the challenges are and what the sector believes are the possible areas for improvements, such as permit changes or junction upgrades.
“This project is about generating new ideas and possible solutions to promote the forestry industry’s growth, productivity and competitiveness.”
Transport Minister Stephan Knoll said the project sought to make road transport safer.
“The project is about making road transport simpler, safer and identify productivity gains within the forestry industry,” Mr Knoll said.
“Strategic road upgrades will improve conditions for heavy vehicles and allow them to navigate via more efficient routes across the state.”
AFPA SA branch manager Leon Rademeyer encouraged industry stakeholders to complete the survey and let the State Government know about key road issues affecting forest businesses.
“The government is offering to hear feedback on things like permit changes or junction upgrades, so we should all take the opportunity,” Mr Rademeyer said.
“We all know that road issues can severely impact on productivity, industry growth and competitiveness and liaising with the government is necessary.”
The State Government has vowed to double the value of domestic timber manufacturing in the state by 2050 and Mr Rademeyer said the survey was a building block towards achieving this goal.
The project is a partnership between PIRSA, Primary Producers SA and the Department of Transport, Planning and Infrastructure.
The survey is available to complete online until November 2.
Visit www.pir.sa.gov.au to access the survey.
