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Independent Verification Group Report

Professor Jonathan West, Chair of the Independent Verification Group, has released the Group's comprehensive assessment of the Tasmanian forestry industry's timber supply requirements and the conservation values of nominated areas of Tasmania's native forests.

The independent expert advice provides a sound factual basis to inform the development of an agreed solution that optimises wood supply and conservation outcomes. This process, led by Professor West with forestry and conservation experts, was agreed by industry, union and environment Signatories to the Statement of Principles.

• Independent Verification Group Report
• Independent Verification Group advice released - media release, 23 March 2012

Voluntary Sawlog Contract Buyback Program

In accordance with the requirements of the Tasmanian Forests Intergovernmental Agreement, at least $15 million is being made available under a voluntary sawlog contract buyback program. This program will buy back native forest sawlog contracts from sawmillers who wish to voluntarily leave the industry. Details of the program are currently being finalised.

The scheme will include the following elements:

• Native forest sawlog contracts voluntarily retired in exchange for exit assistance
• Sawmillers that retire their contracts will exit the industry

Applications for the voluntary sawlog contract buyback program are expected to open in early May.