Maximising northern tropical forestry-linking communities and cutting-edge technology Tiwi Islands

Reference # AT.4.2021001
Research Programs 4. Activating the First Nations Estate

Project Timeframe 4 years (2020 to 2024)
CRCNA Funding $1,656,048
Total project value $4,680,847

Forestry
Agriculture
First Nations led business development

Project locations: Tiwi Islands, Darwin, Melbourne

Project partners: Tiwi Plantations Corporation Trust ; University of Melbourne ; Plantation Management Partners Pty Ltd ; NT Dept Industry, Tourism and Trade ; Charles Darwin University ; Port Melville Pty Ltd ; Forest and Wood Products Australia Limited

Project summary and impacts

This project supported the expansion of tropical hardwood plantations across the Tiwi Islands and northern Australia, combining advanced forestry science with Indigenous-led enterprise development to strengthen productivity, product value and long-term economic opportunities.

Delivered through three integrated research programs, the project identified high-performing Eucalyptus pellita genetics, optimised plantation management practices and assessed opportunities for higher-value timber products. Researchers also worked with Aboriginal communities and industry stakeholders to develop a northern forestry industry growth model, providing a framework for future investment, supply chain development and Indigenous participation in the sector.

The project directly informed Tiwi Plantations Corporation’s transition from acacia to eucalyptus plantations, contributing to the business case for an $80 million second-rotation investment and the replanting of 30,000 hectares on the Tiwi Islands. The research is now guiding the establishment of 30 million trees over the next decade, while creating a foundation for long-term employment, carbon opportunities and future value-adding industries.

By combining cutting-edge genomics, plantation science and community-led development, the project has strengthened the role of Tiwi-owned forestry operations and established a pathway towards a more productive, sustainable and higher-value tropical forestry industry in northern Australia.

Publications

Watch Tiwi Traditions on Landline – https://www.abc.net.au/news/rural/programs/landline/2023-07-02/tree-traditions:-new-plantation-model-for-tiwi/102552570