May 14, 2008. /Lesprom.com/. Federal Budget announcement of $20 million over three years to prepare Australia’s forest industry for the future was welcomed as an important first step by the National Association of Forest Industries (NAFI). “Under the Federal Budget the Australian Government has recognised the vital contribution of Australia’s forestry industry,” NAFI CEO Allan Hansard said. “It’s a solid base from which to begin addressing the issues which are essential to ensuring the forestry industry plays a greater role in Australia’s future. “While climate change and skills shortages are going to have a substantial impact on forestry going forward, it’s vital for the future of the industry that other pressing issues are also addressed. “NAFI looks forward to working with Government and the Minister for Forestry on addressing the issues affecting the industry which include: renewable energy, water sustainability, Indigenous forestry, infrastructure and regional development, bio-energy, forest product innovation, taxation arrangements, sustainable forest management and, of course, climate change and skills shortages. “NAFI also recognises that some of these issues will be tackled under two of the new Nation Building Funds; the Building Australia Fund and the Eduction Investment Fund.