The Australian and Victorian governments have formally commenced a Major Event Review to assess the impacts of the 2019-20 bushfire season on the operation of the Victorian Regional Forest Agreements (RFAs).
Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam said the regional impacts of the bushfires on Australia’s forestry industry could be felt for decades.
“The devastating summer bushfires have had severe impacts on forests, biodiversity, forestry industries and regional communities,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.
“The Australian Government is supporting our communities through these hardships and remains committed to the RFAs, which provide a framework for the continued sustainable management of Victoria’s forests.
“RFAs provide a robust but adaptive framework, allowing forest management and forestry practices to evolve and improve with new information and innovation.
“The review will be conducted by an independent panel, which will be informed by the best available information including scientific data and research, community perspectives, and Traditional Owner insights relating to the impacts of the bushfires.
“The review will provide an opportunity for the public to have their say and I strongly encourage all interested parties to provide input into the review.”
Public consultation is to be completed by February next year and a report is expected to be handed down in May.
Further information will be available on the Department of Agriculture website: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/