Enough structural timber is expected to be available to build Australian homes until at least 2050, according to an ABARES Insights paper released today.
Domestic softwood plantations meet most construction needs for structural sawnwood, and imports help manage demand swings, according to the paper.
Evidence suggests international markets can continue to be relied upon to provide a supplementary source of structural sawnwood when the domestic market needs it.
ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said the paper provides confidence in the structural timber market.
“The data supports consumers and producers, ensuring that both sides of the market see structural timber as a reliable and accessible building material,” Dr Greenville said.
“It takes between 25 to 35 years to grow structurally graded sawnwood so this outlook of a reliable international market is welcome.”
Structural sawnwood imports rise when housing demand peaks and fall once demand returns to normal. This was demonstrated between 2020-21 and 2021-22 during the spike generated by COVID stimulus programs.
Australia’s softwood plantation estate accounts for about 60% of the value of Australia’s total log harvest or $1.4 billion a year.
Dr Greenville said Australia’s consumption of softwood sawnwood closely reflects building activity.
“Having diversified supply options reduces the risk of extreme domestic price swings for sawnwood,” he said.
View the Insights paper here: How global markets help meet demand for structural sawnwood in Australia.
