• End of native logging in sight with new plan to come into effect from 1 January 2024  
• Commitment to add more than 400,000 hectares of karri, jarrah and wandoo in national parks added under latest Forest Management Plan 
• Builds on the legacy of Labor's decision to end old growth logging in 2001 

Commercial logging in native forests will come to an end with the Cook Government's Forest Management Plan 2024-2033 setting out the latest framework for managing more than 2.5 million hectares of native forest throughout Western Australia's south-west. 

The State Government's latest Forest Management Plan (FMP) was developed through extensive consultation, assessment and analysis by the Conservation and Parks Commission, which received more than 3,500 submissions when it released the draft plan for public comment. 

The plan, which will come into effect from 1 January 2024, includes: 

• an end to commercial-scale timber harvesting in native forests; 
• commitment to add more than 400,000 hectares of karri, jarrah and wandoo forests as nature reserves, national parks and conservation parks; 
• support for Traditional Owner involvement in forest management, consistent with the intent of the South West Native Title Settlement; 
• promotion of healthy forests that are more resilient to climate change. 

The Cook Labor Government is supporting regional communities through the $80 million Native Forestry Transition program by creating and supporting sustainable jobs in the South-West region. 

This includes $30 million committed through the Industry and Community Development Programs to support industry and community development linked to the native forestry industry to remain open, and invest in job creation through diversification, expansion and innovation. 

Further details on the plan can be accessed at: dbca.wa.gov.au/fmp 

Comments attributed to Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie: 

“As of January, our south-west forests will be under a new management plan.  

“The Cook Labor Government’s historic decision to end native logging, means millions of hectares of forest will be protected for future generations. This is an incredible legacy to leave not only our kids, but our kids’ kids. 

“The impact of climate change on our natural environments can’t be ignored – which is why we’re acting to conserve the precious biodiversity of our south-west forests, ensuring they can be enjoyed for generations. 

“I’m really pleased to see that the plan additionally unlocks greater involvement of Noongar communities in forest management – particularly in acknowledging the South West Native Title Settlement. 

“I’m proud that we are also supporting regional communities who have historically relied on the timber industry through the $80 million Native Forestry Transition program by creating and supporting sustainable jobs across Warren-Blackwood.” 

Media Contact: Elena Pratt, 9848 3171