Incoming Greens Forests spokesperson Senator Nick McKim says he will use the portfolio to campaign for an end to native forest logging in Australia.
"Taking on the national forests portfolio from Senator Janet Rice feels very much like a homecoming," Senator McKim said.
"My political journey began in the Tasmanian forests at the Farmhouse Creek blockade in 1986."
"I still recall the many days spent shoulder to shoulder with fellow activists fighting to protect those beautiful forests from logging."
"It's where I first met Bob Brown, and where I came to understand the power of combining activism and politics."
"My arrest for defending those forests taught me the power of collective action, the importance of standing up for what you believe in, and the critical role that nature plays in our lives and the health of our planet."
"Our native forests are home to a complex and awesome web of life. They are crucial in the fight against climate change. They nurture our spirits, and they are worth protecting just for what they are - beautiful and magnificent.
"As I step into this role, I'm very aware of the responsibility that comes with it."
"The fight to save our forests is far from over. With my Greens colleagues I am ready to continue this fight in Parliament, on the streets, and in the forests."
The time to end native forest logging is now."
"I thank my dear friend Janet for her amazing work in this role over the years. Hers are big hiking boots to fill!."
