NZ votes for unified FSC governance with Australia [NZ/AU]

Friday 4 Sep 2026

 
A new chapter for FSC in New Zealand is taking shape, with New Zealand-based members unanimously voting to join Australia under a shared Australia and New Zealand governance model.

This decision marks an important milestone for FSC across the region, solidifying a formal role for New Zealand-based members in FSC Australia and New Zealand’s (FSC ANZ) governance and laying a stronger foundation for expanding FSC’s work, engagement, and impact in New Zealand.

Voting closed on Monday 3 August, with all ballots collated and independently verified by FSC ANZ’s Company Secretary. Every vote cast by New Zealand-based FSC members was in favour of the proposed model. This follows the passing of three special resolutions at FSC Australia’s AGM in May enabling the proposed cross-Tasman governance arrangements. 

New Zealand-based directors will be added to the FSC ANZ Board at the next Annual General Meeting to strengthen New Zealand’s representation and voice across the organisation’s Environmental, Social and Economic chambers. 

Importantly, this is just the beginning.

FSC ANZ is planning to establish a dedicated presence in New Zealand, adding a new team member based in the country to work closely with members, certificate holders and stakeholders on the ground. This role will enable FSC ANZ to continue its work of building stronger relationships, supporting greater engagement, and creating new opportunities to advance FSC’s mission across New Zealand.

“We’re really excited about what this next chapter means for FSC in New Zealand,” said Melanie Robertson, CEO of FSC Australia and New Zealand. 

“This decision has been driven and owned by our New Zealand-based members, and we’re pleased to have reached this point. We want to strengthen our relationships in New Zealand, be more connected to the people and organisations working there while increasing FSC’s impact. Having a team member based in New Zealand will be an important part of that.”

This development reflects FSC ANZ’s ambition to work more closely across both countries while recognising the unique opportunities and needs of the New Zealand market.

FSC ANZ will now work with the Board of Directors and FSC International to progress implementation of the new governance model, while continuing to engage with all members across Australia and New Zealand on timelines and the transition process. 

For FSC, New Zealand is a crucial part of the organisation’s future, and we are investing in building that future together with our members and stakeholders. 

Source: Forest Stewardship Council - Aus NZ



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