The Australasian Paper Industry Association (APIA) has officially rebranded as the Australasian Paper and Packaging Industry Association (APPIA), reflecting the expanding role of fibre-based packaging and the evolving paper and packaging supply chain across Australia and New Zealand.

According to the association, the transition represents more than a change of name. It recognizes the sector’s broader industry scope, increasing regulatory responsibilities and the growing importance of fibre-based packaging in supporting circular economy objectives and regional manufacturing capability.

Industry Evolution Drives New Identity

The announcement was made by Executive Director Kellie Northwood, who said the association’s new identity better reflects an industry that has become increasingly diverse and strategically important.

Northwood noted that demand for fibre-based packaging has grown rapidly as governments, brand owners and consumers seek more sustainable packaging alternatives.

Industry research cited by the association indicates that fibre-based packaging categories in Australia have grown by more than 50% over the past decade, driven by increasing demand for recyclable and renewable packaging solutions.

Membership Expands Across the Supply Chain

APPIA said its membership now extends beyond traditional paper manufacturers to include:

• International paper mills
• Packaging converters
• Fibre-board substrate manufacturers
• Paper merchants
• Recycling companies
• Supply chain partners

The association said international mills and substrate suppliers have become increasingly important in supporting supply continuity, product development and innovation throughout Australia and New Zealand’s packaging industry.

Increasing Focus on Regulation and Sustainability

The rebranding comes as the paper and packaging sector faces a growing number of regulatory and environmental requirements.

According to APPIA, key industry issues include:

• Environmental reporting obligations
• Packaging reform
• Illegal logging compliance
• Government procurement policies
• Recyclability standards
• Circular economy initiatives

Northwood said industry supports responsible environmental practices but emphasized that regulation should achieve environmental objectives without creating unnecessary administrative burdens that could affect productivity, investment and local manufacturing.

Continuing Industry Advocacy

The association has played an active role in technical consultation and policy discussions relating to Australia’s paper and packaging industries.

Recent activities include engagement on:

• Waste Export Ban implementation
• Responsible Wood certification
• PEFC certification programs
• Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) initiatives
• Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water consultations

APPIA also confirmed it now holds a position on the APCO Materials Stewardship Committee, where it contributes technical expertise on fibre-based packaging and recyclability.

New Brand Supports Future Industry Priorities

Craig Brown, Chairman of APPIA and Managing Director of Sappi Australia, said the association’s expanded identity reflects the significant transformation of the fibre manufacturing and packaging industries over the past decade.

He said the new organization provides a stronger platform for industry advocacy, collaboration and technical leadership as sustainability and circularity become increasingly important across the packaging value chain.

As part of the transition, APPIA has introduced a new brand identity and announced that a redesigned industry website will launch in the coming months. The platform will include technical guidance, regulatory updates, compliance resources and industry information to help members navigate changing legislative and environmental requirements.

For the pulp, paper and packaging sectors, the transition from APIA to APPIA reflects the industry’s continued evolution beyond traditional paper manufacturing toward a broader fibre-based packaging ecosystem, where sustainability, regulatory compliance and supply chain collaboration are becoming central priorities.

Last Updated on 30/07/2026 by Jota Machinery