- TIMBERBIZ.COM.AU - A La Une - 27/Jun 01:13

WA passes CALM amendment to end large scale timber harvesting

Western Australia’s Cook Government has passed the Conservation and Land Management Amendment Bill that aims to end large scale commercial timber harvesting in native forests. Source: Timberbiz More than 400,000 hectares of karri, jarrah and wandoo forests will be reserved by 2033. The Bill gives legal effect to the government’s decision to end large-scale commercial timber harvesting in native forests, a landmark policy first announced by Labor in September 2021. Since 1 January 2024, under the Forest Management Plan 2024-2033, timber taken from native forests has been limited to forest management activities that improve forest health and clearing for approved mining. The Bill also includes administrative amendments, such as allowing the Conservation and Parks Commission to meet remotely rather than only in person. The Cook Labor Government remains committed to managing our South West native forests for their health and resilience in the fight against climate change. By 2033 more than 400,000 hectares of karri, jarrah and wandoo forests will be reserved as national parks, conservation parks and nature reserves. “This is a landmark moment for WA Labor and a major step forward for the protection of our native forests,” Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn said. “We are proud to build on the legacy of the McGowan Labor Government’s 2021 decision to end commercial-scale timber harvesting, and the Gallop Labor Government’s decision to end old growth logging in 2001. “This Bill locks in that progress, ensuring our South West native forests are protected from large-scale harvesting and managed for their long-term health in the face of climate change. “These are exceptional places, and they deserved to be protected for future generations to enjoy.”