The Australian Government is involved in international efforts to foster the sustainable management of forests globally. The Department of Agriculture goal is to assist our forest industry to grow, improve and capitalise on international opportunities while protecting the environment and contributing to the prosperity and quality of life in rural and regional Australia. To achieve this, the department is engaged in a number of high-level initiatives and forums that deal with issues related to illegal logging, forest certification, sustainable forest management and market access.
Illegal Logging
The government is strongly opposed to illegal logging and the importation of illegally sourced timber products. Illegal logging is a significant global issue. It degrades forest environments, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, reduces biodiversity, results in a loss of government revenue and deprives local communities of ownership rights and opportunities to improve their quality of life. Further details on Australia’s efforts to combat illegal logging.
International Forums
The department has overall responsibility for representing Australia's interests in international and regional forums and processes where forestry matters are discussed.
Capacity Building
Illegal Logging: Regional Capacity Building Partnership
The $8 million Illegal Logging: Regional Capacity Building Partnership, funded in 2012-13 to build capacity in the Asia Pacific region to implement timber legality verification systems.
Asia-Pacific Forestry Skills and Capacity Building Programme
The Department of Agriculture’ Forestry Branch also coordinated the Asia-Pacific Forestry Skills and Capacity Building Programme that concluded in June 2014.