Victoria’s forestry plan to come under review after string of legal losses
Victoria has launched a review of the forestry industry after a string of legal challenges from environmental groups have threatened planned logging and limited the abilities of VicForests.
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Victoria’s 30-year-plan for the forestry industry will come under review after a string of legal challenges have threatened planned logging and limited the abilities of VicForests.
The Andrews Government announced the broad-ranging review on Monday after warnings that the state-owned timber company may not be able it meet its supply commitments.
Logging has stopped at 66 coupes after an environmental group advocating for the Greater Glider and Leadbeater Possum won a major battle in the Federal Court in May.
Other coupes have been shut after separate legal battles prompted by damage during the 2019-20 bushfire season.
The government review will look at how Victoria’s code of practice can be improved to reduce the risk from similar types of court cases.
It will also examine how to strengthen the powers of Victoria’s Conservation Regulator and identify reforms needed after last summer’s horror bushfire season.
The Andrews Government has committed to end native logging by 2030.
Regional Development Minister Jaclyn Symes said the review would help protect the Victorian Forestry Plan and the workers the industry supports.
“Regional jobs are more important than ever right now – we can’t let outdated regulation put them at risk.”
Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said a clear and accurate set of rules was vital for the state’s forest.
“That’s why this review is so important.”
“We are determined to deliver on our plan to end native timber logging by the end of the decade.”