The WA Government has released its draft Forest Management Plan 2024-2033 following a decision to end native logging in the state’s South-West.
The Government says the move will preserve at least 400,000 hectares of karri, jarrah, and wandoo forests, in addition to the 1.6 million hectares of forest already protected.
Environment and Climate Action Minister, Reece Whitby said the decision was necessary to protect local forests.
“The science showing climate change is having and will have a devastating impact on our environment is well-established and cannot be ignored,” Minister Whitby said.
“Safeguarding our forests through this plan will support sustainable, nature-based tourism in the South-West, which is a popular destination.
“This is a once-in-a-decade opportunity for the community to have its say on the way we care for our precious native forests.”
Forestry Minister, Dave Kelly said the decision reflects changing community attitudes.
“This does not mean an end to forest management activities – such as ecological thinning and approved mine site clearing – but an end to large scale commercial logging in our native forests,” Mr Kelly said.
“Native timber sourced from these activities will continue to be available for products such as high value furniture, joinery, artisanal products, charcoal, and firewood post 2023.
“We’re committed to supporting the transition of workers, businesses, and communities linked to the native forest industry through the $80 million Native Forestry Transition plan.”
WA’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions will engage with Noongar Traditional Owners to enter formal arrangements to manage the South-West conservation estate.
The draft Forest Management Plan 2024-2033 – prepared by the Conservation and Parks Commission – also outlines approaches to bushfire risk management and access to domestic firewood.
The public consultation period will run until 18 December, with community information events in regional locations.
