- Landmark decision to end commercial native logging represents milestone for WA
- South West native forests to be protected from 1 January
- Builds on the legacy of Labor's decision to end old growth logging in 2001
Western Australia has become one of the first States in Australia to end commercial logging of native forests.
The State Government's historic decision to stop the unsustainable practice under the Forest Management Plan 2024-33 will protect nearly 2 million hectares of native karri, jarrah, and wandoo forests for future generations.
Following the move to end commercial native forest logging two years ago, the State Government committed to an $80 million Native Forest Transition Plan that included significant industry restructure payments, which have now been made to all eligible sawmills.
Millions of dollars have also been made available through various grants, for community development projects, business diversification, and to attract new industries.
WA's largest commercial timber mills have now exited the industry, and the Cook Government is committed to working with the smaller sustainable mills that will play a valuable role into the future.
Under the new Forest Management Plan, native timbers will only be available by ecologically thinning, which promotes forest health and resilience from drought and bushfires.
The Cook Government is also investing a record $350 million dollars in WA's softwood pine plantations, which will support thousands of South West jobs.
Pine from softwood timber plantations is extensively used in the construction of WA homes.Additionally, the plantations capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to fight climate change.
As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:
"More than two decades after the Gallop Government ended old-growth logging, the Cook Government has delivered on its commitment to end commercial logging in Western Australia's native forests.
"This decision is a historic moment for WA.
"Our State is now one of the first in Australia to end native logging, a move which will promote conservation and resilience throughout our natural environment."
As stated by Forestry Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"This historic decision, reflects the changing climate and community attitudes, and will safeguard our iconic forests for years to come.
"This is a new era for our South West and I am proud to be part of a Government that is prioritising forest health and supporting the local industry to diversify and grow."
