Engineered timber, modern methods of construction (MMC), forest health and climate solutions are among the priority areas that Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) will target in its next National Open Call for Research.
That is according to AFWI Executive Director Dr Joseph Lawrence, who heads the $200 million R&D body — backed by $100 million in federal funding — and said the next round of grants, up to $2.5 million per project, was designed to drive systemic change, not incremental improvement.
“Australia’s housing challenge won’t be solved with business-as-usual construction,” he told Wood Central. “AFWI’s National Open Call is about unlocking timber innovation that can deliver faster housing while strengthening forests and climate outcomes.”
It comes as the federal government has committed $54 million to develop modern methods of construction in Australia — part of a broader policy package that has seen prefab and modular housing formally recognised under the National Housing Accord.
And the new call targets the full forest and wood products value chain, with a particular emphasis on modernising industrial timber construction across housing delivery.
Wood Central understands projects must align with at least one of AFWI’s four strategic pillars — Healthier Forests, Maximising Fibre, Climate Solutions, and Housing Innovation — and demonstrate strong co-design with industry partners.
Indicative grants range from $50,000 to $2.5 million. Matching co-contributions of at least 50 per cent of the total project cost are required, with projects able to run for up to four years.
The round follows a two-stage process: an initial expression of interest, followed by an invitation to submit full proposals. AFWI is encouraging researchers and industry proponents to make contact ahead of the opening.
Eligible applicants include universities, CSIRO, industry associations, Indigenous organisations, not-for-profits, state and local governments, and private companies. Projects must be primarily based in Australia and hold a valid ABN. First Nations-led projects, or those incorporating Indigenous perspectives, are specifically welcomed.
- To learn more about the latest AFWI Open Call for Research, click here for more information.
