Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam has welcomed VicForests’ successful appeal in VicForests v Friends of Leadbeater’s Possum Inc.

Assistant Minister Duniam said he is unwavering in his support for the forestry industry.

“The government is committed to Regional Forest Agreements (RFAs) to provide resource access and a stable investment environment to the forest industry,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.

“RFAs provide a high-level framework for delivering environmental, economic and social benefits from our native forests.

“The Full Federal Court has unanimously spoken, and I urge FOLP to accept its decision and quit any plans for further legal action.

“The decision provides certainty to industry, with the Australian Forest Products Association CEO Ross Hampton saying it ‘provides certainty for Victoria’s native timber industry, and indeed for forest industry workers around the country who depend on the operational certainty that the robust RFA framework provides.

“The forestry industry is valuable to every Australian – and that value is not just in the timber it provides.

“While a strong forestry industry means we have Australian timber for our houses, decks, tables and chairs, it also supports the livelihoods of local families and is the lifeblood of so many of our regional communities.

“The Australian Government stands shoulder to shoulder with industry, those employed both directly and indirectly, their families and the broader communities to ensure that they are supported into the future.”