The Australian Government, in collaboration with the University of Tasmania (UTAS), has launched the Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) program, a $100 million initiative aimed at advancing research and innovation in the nation’s forest and wood products industries.
As part of this initiative, AFWI has announced its second National Open Call for research projects, inviting industry professionals and researchers to submit expressions of interest (EOIs) for a share of $5 million in grant funding. This call is open from March 7, 2025, until April 14, 2025.
Program Overview
AFWI’s mission is to support applied research that fosters innovation and commercialization within Australia’s forest and wood products sectors. By addressing industry challenges and promoting sustainable practices, AFWI aims to ensure the competitiveness and growth of these industries.
Funding Details
The current National Open Call offers $5 million in grant funding, with successful projects requiring matching contributions from industry or other sources. This collaborative approach not only amplifies the impact of the funding but also strengthens partnerships between researchers and industry stakeholders.
Research Focus Areas
AFWI encourages proposals that align with its strategic objectives, including:
- Developing climate change solutions
- Enhancing sustainable forest management
- Maximising the utilisation of available wood fibre
These focus areas are designed to address current industry challenges and promote sustainable growth within the sector.
Application Process
This year’s application process introduces a two-stage approach:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Applicants submit an initial EOI outlining their proposed research.
- Full Proposal: Selected applicants from the EOI stage are invited to submit detailed proposals.
This streamlined process aims to enhance industry alignment and maximise real world impact.
Impact of Previous Funding Rounds
The inaugural National Open Call resulted in eight successful projects sharing the first $5 million grant, unlocking an additional $8.3 million in matching investments from industry and research partners. These projects are exploring practical solutions ranging from identifying Australian timber species suitable for sports flooring to developing methods to protect seedlings from pest animals.
How to Apply
Researchers and industry professionals interested in applying can find more information and submit their EOIs through this website. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of Australia’s forest and wood products industries by developing innovative solutions to pressing challenges.
By participating in this National Open Call, stakeholders can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the forestry sector, ensuring its sustainability, competitiveness, and ability to meet the demands of a changing world.