“We currently source fibre from privately-owned plantations, recycled sources and the Victorian Government through VicForests. Our wood supplies from the Victorian Government are sourced using sustainable, third party certified, forestry practises. We are committed to ensuring our future fibre supplies come from internationally recognised, third party certified sources,” said Mr Jim Henneberry, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Paper.

“The review is examining all fibre supply options, with a focus on additional plantation fibre, and will engage with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure we get the balance right for all.

“Australian Paper has pioneered the establishment of plantations since 1951 and, today, close to 60% of our total fibre requirement is met from plantations. In 2000 we made a public commitment to further increase this plantation supply. In 2005 the company signed an agreement to establish substantial extra plantations around our Maryvale Mill; however this has been unable to deliver to projections.
“Fires and drought have also impacted our ability to deliver on this commitment. We have been as disappointed as anyone with this outcome; however, our intent to increase plantation wood usage hasn’t changed.

“Today’s announcement is about engaging with stakeholders on a long-term approach to our wood resource strategy. We are aiming to optimise our economic, social and environmental sustainability. The final strategy will ensure a sustainable position that addresses our many key stakeholders.

“An important part of the review process involves looking at all the plantation options in detail, including plantation wood supplies in Gippsland and in Western Victoria. The latter resource is more than 500 kilometres from our Mill and we have commissioned a detailed study of this option.

“The review will utilise our best people and recognised experts. We need to constructively consult with our key stakeholders to get it right. This includes environmental groups who we have maintained an open dialogue with over many years. Our hope is that all key stakeholders will be available and open to an inclusive process,” Mr Henneberry said.

Mr Henneberry pointed to the company’s broader record as an indicator of the commitment the company has to sustainability.

“We have pioneered recycled and carbon neutral paper in Australia. We have reduced water usage by 64% per tonne of paper in the last 30 years, halved our carbon emissions per tonne over the same period and are now Victoria's largest industrial generator of baseload renewable energy,” Mr Henneberry said.

Australian Paper expects to announce the findings of the review in August this year.