Australia’s reformed illegal logging laws are now in effect

Friday 7 Mar 2025

Amendments to the Illegal Logging Prohibition Act 2012 (Act) are in effect as of 3 March 2025. Also in effect are the Illegal Logging Prohibition Rules 2024 (Rules), which replace the Illegal Logging Prohibition Regulation 2012.

You can download a flowchart below which demonstrates the differences between the due diligence process prior to 3 March 2025 and the new arrangements now in effect.

What does this mean for importers and processors?

The Rules introduce changes to due diligence requirements. It is up to you to understand your responsibilities as an importer or processor of regulated timber, timber products and/or raw logs.

The fundamental steps of your due diligence requirements remain unchanged. This includes a written due diligence system, information gathering, risk assessment, risk mitigation and record keeping. The requirement to respond to a request for information from the department also remains the same. However, there are key changes to some steps:
  • The three previous risk assessment methods (Country Specific Guidelines (CSG) or State Specific Guidelines, Timber Legality Frameworks and Regulated Risk Factors) have been replaced with two distinct risk assessment pathways for: 'Certified timber and timber products/raw logs' and 'Non-certified timber and timber products/raw logs'.
  • There is a new repeat due diligence exception. This allows you to rely on a previous risk assessment and risk mitigation measures if you import or process the same timber, timber products, or raw logs from the same supplier within a 12 month period. You can use this exception regardless of the certification status of your timber or timber products.
  • There is an exemption for processors who are also the person/entity who harvested the raw log.
Illegal Logging Legislation Changes Flowchart


The new laws also include a future requirement to provide notice to the department before importing or processing regulated timber, timber products or raw logs. This requirement has not come into effect, as it relies on a new IT system that is still being developed. We will update you as this progresses.

The Act introduces new powers for the department to undertake certain activities. 

More >>

Source and image credit: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forest


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