Responsible management of Queensland's native forests
The Queensland Government is committed to the effective and responsible management and use of the state's native forest resources.
Harvesting of state native forests is restricted to designated areas and must be carried out in a sustainable way, and our forest management system is certified to the Australian Standard® for Sustainable Forest Management.
This guide explains how we work to ensure the sustainable use of our native forests through harvesting conscientiously and adhering to policies and standards, including details about defined forest areas in Queensland. It will also give you access to resources that help you understand how to manage native forests sustainably, and information on tree species common to private native forestry in Queensland.
Video: Responsibly managing native forests
Discover how native timber harvesting is conducted on Queensland's state-owned land. This video explains the process of selective harvesting to produce high-value timber materials while ensuring strict compliance with legislation and regulations. Learn how responsible forest management supports sustainability and preserves our natural resources for future generations.
Learn more about state native forestry in Queensland.
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[Male voice over]
The Queensland Government ensures state-owned native forests are carefully managed to safeguard the environment and support regional growth.
Queensland's native forests continue to provide essential timber resources for our state.
Like many state forests in Queensland, harvesting has been occurring in this forest for over 100 years.
[Leanne - Principal Ecologist]
Selective harvesting is practised in Queensland, which means trees are individually identified for harvesting.
This low-intensity method is different to land clearing, which can change ecosystems forever.
With selective harvesting, at least 50% of the forest stand remains intact.
Selective harvesting encourages forest regeneration.
When trees are harvested, it allows space and sunlight for young saplings to grow faster.
This regrowth means harvesting can continue from the same forests for years to come.
[Charles - Director Forestry Policy and Projects]
The difference in Queensland is that our forests are made up of many tree species of different ages and sizes.
When selective harvesting occurs, growing young saplings are provided with an opportunity to fill the canopy gap.
Native timber selectively harvested from state-owned forests in Queensland is used for high-value building and construction purposes.
Our Queensland hardwood is renowned for its strength, durability, fire resistance and natural beauty.
It is widely used for bridges, railways and especially power poles, which are important for a state as vast as Queensland.
The attractive appearance of species such as spotted gum also makes it perfect for flooring, decking and other construction applications.
[Monique - Planning Officer, Forestry]
Before each selective harvest, we prepare detailed operational harvesting plans.
The planning process starts with extensive research to identify where the harvest can and can't occur.
We look for any values of interest that may need to be protected, such as flora and fauna, watercourses and recreational areas.
We also learn about the cultural heritage of the area, identifying culturally significant locations where harvesting will be excluded.
Operational harvesting plans outline the actions to be taken to ensure selective harvesting is low impact and complies with regulation.
This includes leaving at least 50% of the forest standing, minimising soil disturbances and reducing overall site impacts.
[Charles - Director Forestry Policy and Projects]
Selective native timber harvesting is strictly regulated in Queensland.
We ensure selective harvesting complies with Queensland's code of practice for native forest timber production, as well as state and Commonwealth legislation.
We also undertake our own audits and inspections, working with different government agencies to ensure continued compliance.
[Matt de Jongh - Responsible Wood]
These state forests are certified to the Australian Standard for Sustainable Forest Management through the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme, which confirms that these forests are managed responsibly.
In order to maintain the certification, the Forest Management System is audited once every nine months by an independent third-party auditor.
[Male voice over]
Our forestry practices support the ongoing supply of high-value timber while protecting forest ecosystems.
Queensland’s native timber harvesting — selective, responsible, renewable.