Community input is informing modernisation of the Regional Forest Agreements.
An Independent Consultation Paper – Modernisation of the Victorian Regional Forest Agreements - written by Dr William Jackson explains what the RFAs are, how they operate, and how effective they have been. This paper has guided discussion and input to possible improvements to the RFAs.
Dr William Jackson
About the Author
Dr William (Bill) Jackson is an independent environmental consultant with extensive experience in forest conservation, protected area management and community development.
He runs his own company Intellagama Pty Ltd and is an adjunct Professor at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Dr Jackson held the positions of Chief Executive Officer of Parks Victoria and Director of National Parks for the State of Victoria from late 2010 until June 2015.
Prior to his appointment to Parks Victoria, Dr Jackson was Deputy Director General of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). He helped establish the general direction and strategy for IUCN and provided top-level direction for the implementation of their conservation program worldwide.
Dr Jackson previously held various positions in the IUCN including Director of the Global Program and Head of Forest Conservation. During his 13 years with the IUCN, Dr Jackson worked on a wide range of conservation and development issues in developing countries in Africa and Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Regional Forest Agreement?
Regional Forest Agreements (RFAs) are agreements between the Australian Government and states that establish the framework for the sustainable management of forests within each of the RFA regions. The Victorian RFAs:
- identify a comprehensive, adequate and representative reserve system and provide for the conservation of those areas
- provide for the ecologically sustainable management and use of forests in each RFA region
- provide for the long-term stability of forests and forest industries
Victoria has five RFAs signed between 1997 and 2000, and all five RFAs are due to expire in March 2020.
Who is the author of the Independent Consultation paper?
Dr William (Bill) Jackson authored the Independent Consultation Paper – Modernisation of the Victorian Regional Forest Agreements.
Dr Jackson is an independent environmental consultant with extensive experience in forest conservation, protected area management and community development.
How will the consultation information be used?
Community input is directly informing the RFA modernisation process.
Information gathered through consultation is assisting the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments to understand what Victorians want for their forests and how the Victorian RFAs can be improved to support this.
It is also helping to inform the Victorian Government as it implements its program of forest management reform.
Will there be a report summarising the outcomes of this consultation?
Yes. Input received via the online survey, written submissions and through face-to-face engagement is being collated and analysed. A report will be made available on this website.
Page last updated: 01/04/20