The NSW Government is today announcing the appointment of an expert panel to lead consultation on a Forestry Industry Action Plan, which will outline the path NSW will take to ensure a sustainable timber industry that aligns with the government's key environmental priorities.
The Independent Forestry Panel will be chaired by Peter Duncan AM who has more than 40 years' experience in primary industries, infrastructure and regional NSW.
Professor Mary O'Kane AC and the Hon. Mick Veitch will also sit on the Panel.
The Panel will be tasked with consulting with a broad range of stakeholders and report to Government on the best options to achieve the balance between sustainable supplies of timber and our environmental commitments.
Stakeholders include representatives from the timber industry, forest growers, environment groups, unions, Aboriginal communities, local government, business, related industries, tourism, scientific experts and the Commonwealth Government.
The Plan will address the following key areas:
- Sustainability of current and future forestry operations in NSW;
- Environmental and cultural values of forests, including threatened species;
- Community demand for timber products, particularly as relates to NSW housing, construction, mining, transport and retail;
- The future of softwood and hardwood plantations and the continuation of Private Native Forestry in helping meet timber supply needs;
- The role of State Forests in maximising the delivery of a range of environmental, economic and social outcomes;
- Opportunities to realise carbon and biodiversity benefits and support carbon and biodiversity markets, and mitigate and adapt to climate change risks; and
- Greenhouse gas emission impacts of different uses of forests and assessment of climate change risks to forests.
The former Coalition Government neglected to plan for the future of this industry, so the NSW Government is taking action to give certainty to communities, workers and industry.
To stay informed on the Independent Forestry Panel's process, please register your interest at www.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/forestry-industry-action-plan
Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe said:
"The NSW Government is consulting on the future of forestry in NSW.
"Whether it's hardwood, softwood or private native forest, our forests and the native species which call them home have faced challenges including bushfires, floods and the ongoing risks due to climate change.
"We want your input on what forests and a sustainable forestry industry will look like in the next 30 years.
"The expert panel will consult a wide range of stakeholders and we encourage everyone to have their say."
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
"We need both trees and wood, and we must strike the right balance for communities and our environment in regional NSW.
"Timber is a crucial part of our everyday lives, with timber needed for community and government priorities such as housing, transport infrastructure, electricity distribution, and freight transport.
"The families, businesses and communities that make up this industry will be considered for the Action Plan. Their knowledge and experience will be essential for understanding the issues and finding the solutions.
"Our timber workers also play a crucial role, when we need it most, to protect our forests and our communities during bushfires. They are part of our frontline in those difficult times, where their skills and equipment are critical in the fight.
"The consultative work that is set to go into this Action Plan will ensure all stakeholders are listened to and we arrive at the best future for the timber industry and sustainable state forests."
