DAFF timber testing trial reveals urgent need for stronger illegal logging laws

The results of the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) recent timber testing trial have highlighted critical gaps in the traceability and legality of timber products entering the Australian market. The trial tested 146 timber products from 39 distinct species using advanced scientific techniques such as DNA analysis and stable isotope testing. Shockingly, 25% of the products tested showed inconsistencies with declared species or origin.

Key findings

• 25% of tested products had discrepancies in species, origin, or both.
• Illegal logging remains a significant global environmental issue, impacting biodiversity, climate, and economies.
• Despite many businesses complying with regulations, some are deceiving consumers and undermining Australia’s biosecurity.

The importance of stricter regulations

The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) has long advocated for stronger regulations to combat illegal logging, and these test results further confirm the need for tougher legislation. Diana Hallam, CEO of AFPA, emphasized that “while many importers are doing the right thing, those that aren’t are putting both Australian industry and consumers at risk.”

She also pointed out that the trial showed troubling cases where timber products, such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL), contained undisclosed sources from high-risk regions like Russia.

Stronger frameworks and technology for transparency

The DAFF trial underscores the importance of timber testing technologies to verify the accuracy of timber claims and ensure compliance with Australian laws. Matt Lowe, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, noted, “Timber testing is an essential tool for mitigating the risk of illegal timber entering the market and ensuring the integrity of Australia’s forestry sector.”

The Albanese Government’s passing of the Illegal Logging Prohibition Amendment Bill in 2024 is a critical step in addressing the issue. AFPA continues to call for greater investment in technological solutions and stronger enforcement mechanisms.

The path forward: supporting legal and sustainable timber

To avoid illegal timber, Hallam advocates for purchasing Australian-grown and manufactured timber products, which also supports local economies. However, she emphasized the need for transparency across the entire timber supply chain, both domestically and internationally.

The results of the DAFF trial serve as a reminder that tackling illegal logging requires collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and consumers. Australia’s commitment to ensuring the sustainability and legality of timber imports remains a top priority, with significant efforts underway to reform existing legislation and increase accountability.

Timberbiz » DAFF timber testing trial shows need for tougher laws