NSW updated Farm Forestry Codes of Practice effective from today

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The NSW government has introduced a new Farm Forestry Codes of Practice, effective from May 2, for the state’s private forestry industry.

The new code updates harvest and operating standards and planning and reporting for Local Land Services, has options for small-scale harvesting, and provides clearer environmental protections.

“These new codes will provide the critical materials we will need to rebuild our communities impacted by the recent floods, keep up with the construction boom and keep firing our economy,” deputy premier and minister for regional NSW Paul Toole said. 

The government says the new codes were informed by forest science and ecology experts. The NSW Natural Resources Commission reviewed the new codes of practice and found them to be a substantive improvement. 

NSW agriculture minister Dugald Saunders said the new codes would play an important role in the timber shortage.

“These new codes will put farmers in NSW in better stead to produce timber to be sold domestically, which not only directly addresses these timber shortages but also increases income streams for farmers after a tough few years,” Saunders said. 

“These new codes provide a consistent and sustainable approach to how farmers manage their farms and forests, are clear and easier to use, and meet the principles of ecologically sustainable forest management.”

Saunders said the new farm forestry codes are a key commitment made to landholders and the community under the NSW Forestry Industry Roadmap.

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