Thursday, 23 July 2026 – State Government Media Release
Portland could be home to Australia’s first Blue Gum glue-laminated timber.
Grown in sustainable plantations across the Portland region, Blue Gum is currently processed into woodchips for wood pulp and paper markets internationally.
The Future Portland Hardwood Timber Manufacturing Hub feasibility study shows that Blue Gum could be used in-higher value construction products.
Portland could create up to 74 full-time ongoing jobs and 150 construction jobs through this type of timber.
Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora today announced the completion of the Future Portland Hardwood Timber Manufacturing Hub feasibility study and the Future Portland dashboard.
This was made possible by more than $500,000 from the Portland Diversification Fund.
The findings will help the next stage of Portland’s Precinct development, backed by $1.75 million from the
Allan Labor Government, as well as funding from the Albanese Labor Government.
Portland is at the heart of the Green Triangle – Australia’s largest sustainable plantation forestry region, which stretches across the Victoria South Australia border.
The new study will explore what could become Australia’s largest plantation hardwood and softwood processing precinct, with a hardwood peeling trial already underway.
More than $50 billion has been delivered through the Allan Labor Government over the past decade to make our regions even better places to live, work, visit and study.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development and Agriculture Michaela Settle
“Portland has everything needed to become a major hub for advanced timber manufacturing – a skilled
workforce, a strong forestry industry and a community ready to grow.”
“Victoria’s plantation forestry industry has enormous potential, and this study is an important step towards
unlocking new markets for locally grown timber and creating jobs.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora
“We’re helping Portland become a leader in advanced timber manufacturing by backing local jobs,
supporting industry and creating new opportunities for the community.”
“Only Labor is investing in projects that harness the strengths of our regions, support local jobs and create
lasting opportunities for future generations.”
Quote attributable to Glenelg Shire Council Mayor Karen Stephens
“The completion of the Hardwood Timber Manufacturing Hub Feasibility Study, alongside Council’s Future Portland Project, demonstrates a proactive approach to understanding and preparing for future opportunities across Glenelg Shire.”
Quote attributable to Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub Independent Chair Dr Ruth Schubert
“The completion of the Advanced Timber Manufacturing Hub Feasibility Study is an important milestone for both the Green Triangle and our communities.”
Quote attributable to Victorian Forest Products Association CEO Andrew White
“Victoria grows world-class timber resources. This feasibility study shows that we can also become a leader in manufacturing innovative new timber products.”