The Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Industry employs about 34,700 workers in South Australia, accounting for 3.66 per cent of the state's workforce.

Forestry and logging plantations in South Australia cover more than 168,000 hectares. The industry employs about 5,200 full-time workers and is forecast to grow by about 10 per cent over the coming years, contributing $210 million in additional income and creating 1,500 jobs.

The industry supports a thriving number of downstream businesses including sawmills, wood processing, paper and pulp manufacturing, furniture and cabinet making and construction.

However, the industry faces significant challenges such as environmental concerns, climate change, regulatory pressures, and labour shortages.  Key policies and strategic plans that govern the sector:

• South Australian Wood Fibre and Timber Industry Master Plan.
• State specific legislation related to timber harvesting along with national standards.
• Sustainable forestry initiatives.

Downstream industries connected to forestry and logging include:

• Sawmills and wood processing - these businesses convert logs into lumber and other wood products.
• Paper and pulp manufacturing - these businesses utilise wood fibres to produce paper products.