Forest & Wood Communities Australia (FWCA), Media Release, 23 May 2023
Today’s announcement to bring forward the end of native forestry by six years is a devastating blow for thousands of regional Victorian families.
It is estimated that native forestry provides 5000 direct jobs and many more indirect jobs providing the lifeblood for regional communities such as Orbost, which stands to lose 37 per cent of its workers.
Forest & Wood Communities Australia director Mick Harrington and Gippsland timber worker said the ramifications of this decision are dire.
“We have people already on the edge thanks to the 2019 announcement and the relentless assault on sustainable native forestry since then,” he said.
“These are people who have been caring for our forests and ensuring they continue to provide a renewable resource, but are now wondering how to feed their families and keep their homes.
“There has been zero credible scientific evidence to support this decision which comes when we need to embrace renewable resources.
“Internationally forestry is heralded as a climate change solution. But in Australia, where we have the strictest policies governing native timber harvesting, it is derided by unaccountable activism which exists in our universities, media and Labor Governments.
“This Andrews Government has caved into extremism and academic activism with no thought for people who just want to work hard and support their families.”
Related stories: Delivering certainty for timber workers: Andrews; Forestry sector dismayed by decision to end native Victorian forestry: Forestry Australia
