Legislation and regulations protect the values in our forests where timber harvesting occurs. This framework is important as we transition away from native forest harvesting by 2030.

You can find out more about this framework on the Legislative framework and regulations page.

A key part of this framework is the Code of Practice for Timber Production 2014 (the Code). The Code is the way we regulate commercial timber harvesting in Victoria’s forests.

What is the Code of Practice?

The Code regulates commercial timber harvesting operations in state forests, private native forests and plantations. It outlines environmental standards for planning and conducting commercial timber harvesting. Commercial timber harvesters must comply with the Code.

The Management standards and procedures for timber harvesting operations in Victoria's State forests (Schedule 1 to the Code) has further instructions for timber harvesting operations in state forests.

The Code will continue to apply to any commercial timber harvesting operations in Victoria’s state forests.

The Code was amended in November 2021, and again in June 2022, to improve how it is interpreted and enforced.

From July 2024, references in the Code to VicForests as managing authority for timber harvesting operations in State forests are to be read as references to the Secretary to DEECA. Those references were updated by section 9(2) of the Sustainable Forests (Timber) Repeal Act 2024.

Instruments of variation

Instruments of variation are made whenever the Code is amended. The instruments below show recent changes made to the Code.

Management Guidelines for private native forests and plantations

There are different rules for private forests and plantations. The Management Guidelines for private native forests and plantations provides guidance for:

  • timber production managers and operators, to interpret the Code, and
  • local governments, which monitor Code compliance under Victorian planning schemes.

The management guidelines do not replace the mandatory actions in the Code.

Management Guidelines for private native forests and plantations (PDF, 1.7 MB)

Page last updated: 29/08/24