Tassie forest talks seek a sustainable solution

Tasmanian rainforest trees such as these sassafras (Atherosperma moschatum) are among those at risk from logging. Photographer: Rob Blakers

The Wilderness Society, along with ACF and Environment Tasmania, has been meeting with representatives from forest industry groups to seek a sustainable resolution to the conflict over forests in Tasmania.

We already know that the vast majority of Australians are in favour of protecting the high conservation value forests of Tasmania, New South Wales, and Victoria - 9 out of every 10 people, according to the most recent poll. Our challenge is to direct this people power to the decision-makers who can make this historic change.

That’s why we’ve been busy meeting with these groups and the Tasmanian Premier, David Bartlett. The Tasmanian government has indicated that it will provide support to allow all the organisations involved to explore whether or not agreement is possible.

Currently, these are informal talks.  All parties have agreed that we need to find a solution that involves all Tasmanians and is supported by State and Federal governments. We will not proceed with the talks unless agreements on key points can be reached.

There is a lot of good will around these talks – but that doesn’t mean finding a solution to a conflict that has divided Tasmania for decades will be easy or quick.

The other organisations involved in these preliminary discussions include:

• Timber Communities Australia
• National Association of Forest Industries
• CFMEU
• Environment Tasmania
• Australian Conservation Foundation

All these groups will continue to seek input from their members and supporters, and the broader Tasmanian community, as these discussions progress.

Let’s hope they can all seize this unprecedented opportunity to save our forests AND protect jobs and Tasmania’s economy.

Watch this space - we’ll update you about the progress of the Tasmanian forest industry talks, as and when we know more.