This report is a comprehensive resource that provides guidance and information for Indigenous businesses, groups, and individuals who own and/or manage forests for timber production and other benefits. The document is part of a series of four guidance reports that cover topics related to small-scale farm forestry, private native forestry, and Indigenous managed forest lands. Learn more about the other reports and documents via this link.
The guidance materials were developed by Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA) with funding from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to help break down knowledge barriers and provide guidance for Indigenous forest management.
The report covers a range of topics related to forestry on Indigenous owned and managed lands, including the context of Indigenous forest management, what forestry is, and current legislation.
The report also includes case studies that illustrate effective Indigenous commercial forestry practices, such as the AQIP developing Indigenous commercial forestry in northern Australia and AQIP assessing forestry values of Cape York’s savanna woodlands.
One of the key findings highlighted in the report is the need for further development of Indigenous commercial forestry in northern Australia. This includes opportunities in commercial native forests, plantation forestry, mine rehabilitation, and capacity building.
The study identifies specific areas for policy, investment, and research, such as native forest inventory, forest management trials, community sawmills processing local timbers, new plantation forestry trials, and business development support including mentoring. The report emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific needs and challenges faced by Indigenous businesses and individuals involved in commercial forestry.
