Support for NSW Forestry Businesses Impacted by the Great Koala National Park
The forestry industry across Northern New South Wales is navigating a period of significant change following the introduction of the Great Koala National Park. For many businesses across the supply chain, this has created uncertainty, disruption, and important decisions about the future.
In response, the Rural Financial Counselling Service Northern Region (RFCSNR) is working closely with NSW DPIRD (Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development) to ensure forestry businesses, contractors, and supply chain operators have access to the right support, at the right time.
A Coordinated Approach to Forestry Industry Support
As a key support agency, RFCSNR is collaborating with NSW DPIRD to deliver targeted, practical assistance to those impacted by changes associated with the Great Koala National Park.
This wrap around approach ensures that forestry businesses are not navigating these challenges alone. By combining on-the-ground industry knowledge with access to government support programs, we are helping businesses better understand their options and take informed next steps.
Importantly, RFCSNR has a dedicated specialist team member Alana Spinks focused specifically on forestry-related impacts. This means:
- A strong understanding of the forestry supply chain and regional impacts
- Up-to-date knowledge of the available government support programs
- Tailored guidance aligned to individual business circumstances
This dedicated support helps cut through complexity and ensures businesses can quickly access relevant assistance.
Understanding the Supply Chain Support Suite
There are a range of supports available under the forestry supply chain support suite, designed to assist businesses affected by industry changes.
These supports may include:
- Business planning and financial analysis
- Assistance understanding eligibility for grants or programs
- Support to assess business viability and future options
- Guidance through application processes
RFCSNR works alongside NSW DPIRD to help forestry businesses navigate what’s available and identify the supports most relevant to their situation.
If you’re unsure what you may be eligible for, or how these supports apply to your business, now is the time to explore your options.
You can find the full Forestry Industry Supply Chain Program for business here
Supporting Forestry Businesses—Now and Into the Future
Beyond immediate support, RFCSNR has a long-standing role in helping primary producers and related industries build financially sustainable, resilient businesses.
For those in the forestry sector, this may include:
- Reviewing financial position and cash flow
- Identifying risks and opportunities within the business
- Exploring diversification or transition pathways
- Strengthening long-term business planning
Working with a Rural Financial Counsellor (RFC) provides an opportunity to step back, assess where your business is now, and consider what a sustainable future could look like.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
Change in the forestry sector can feel uncertain – but it can also be a turning point for strengthening business foundations and exploring new opportunities.
RFCSNR, along with NSW DPIRD, NSW Local Land Services and peak industry associations, are here to ensure forestry businesses across Northern NSW have access to clear, practical support as they navigate this transition.
If you’re part of the forestry industry and want to better understand the support options available to you, including those under the supply chain support suite, our team is ready to help you take the next step.
Call 1800 344 090 or click here to request a confidential and impartial call back.