PARK WATCH Article March 2025 |

With a state election due next year and some opposition politicians advocating for a return to logging, the future of our forests hangs in the balance says Executive Director, Matt Ruchel

Ayear ago, we celebrated a groundbreaking pledge by the state government – the largest forest reserve expansion in Victoria’s history. Following the end of native forest logging, this commitment was a beacon of hope. Our breathtaking forests and diverse wildlife were set to be protected for generations to come.

But that promise is now at risk. Contradictory government actions and statements have cast doubt on whether these vital protections will ever materialise. Victoria’s forests are more than just trees. They’re living ecosystems, home to threatened wildlife and offer people a peaceful retreat into nature.

The Great Outdoors Taskforce was established to guide the creation of new protected areas. Its directive was clear: evaluate and recommend which forests should become national parks. Yet, in a concerning reversal, the taskforce has now stated it ‘will not be making any recommendation for large-scale changes to land tenure.’ This raises serious concerns that the Allan Government is backtracking on its promise.

Key areas at risk

The forests under discussion are a stunning mix of lush rainforests, towering eucalypts, and serene wetlands.

Like Brown Mountain in East Gippsland: a spectacular landscape of ancient ferns and towering eucalypts, home to rare wildlife like Greater Gliders and Sooty Owls. This area should be added to Errinundra National Park for lasting protection.

Or Nunniong Plateau, a vital but vulnerable landscape of Alpine Ash forests and delicate sphagnum bogs. Without protection, threats like cattle grazing and feral horses could degrade these fragile habitats, impacting wildlife like Eastern Pygmy Possums and Spot-tailed Quolls. It should be included in an extension of the Alpine National Park.

Delays, secrecy and inaction

The Victorian Government also commissioned an Eminent Person’s Panel to assess forest protections in the Central Highlands. That report, submitted last year, remains hidden from public view – while damaging activities continue.

Meanwhile, the long-promised Wombat-Lerderderg and Mt Buangor national parks, announced in 2021, have yet to be legislated.

This pattern of delay and secrecy threatens to undo years of conservation progress. Every moment lost increases the risk that shifting political winds could allow habitat destruction to resume under a future government.

The time to act is now

VNPA is calling on the government to fulfil its commitments – finalise protections, create new national parks, and secure Victoria’s natural heritage. Through ecological surveys, advocacy, and community petitions, we’re keeping the pressure on.

Imagine a Victoria where forests thrive, wildlife flourishes, and future generations can explore lush and ancient landscapes. That future is within reach – but only if promises are kept.

Support our work to protect these forests