2 June 2026
Public comment is now being sought on an amendment to Australian/New Zealand Standard for Sustainable Forest Management (AS/NZS 4708:2021).
Developed by Responsible Wood, AS/NZS 4708 sets out requirements for sustainable forest management in Australia and New Zealand. It forms part of the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme and supports PEFC-endorsed certification in Australia. In New Zealand, it underpins the PEFC-recognised sustainable forest management scheme.
The Standard plays an important role in stewarding responsible forest management practices that support healthy forests, biodiversity, renewable timber supply, regional jobs, cultural values and community expectations.
Responsible Wood CEO Simon Dorries said the review process helps ensure the Standard continues to reflect evolving industry practices, environmental priorities, scientific knowledge, and stakeholder expectations.
“Sustainable forest management impacts a wide range of people and sectors, from forest managers and manufacturers through to builders, designers, retailers, environmental groups, communities and consumers,” Mr Dorries said.
“This public consultation is an important opportunity for stakeholders to help shape the future of responsible forest management in Australia and New Zealand.”
With the revision process initiated every 5 years, latest updates reflect changes to the PEFC International Standard for Sustainable Forest Management PEFC ST 1003:2024 introduced to align PEFC with the European Deforestation Regulation and stakeholder feedback received since AS/NZS 4708 was last updated in 2021. The revised draft has been developed by the Standards Reference Committee, which includes representatives from forest management, forest research, auditing, government, community organisations, environmental groups, Indigenous stakeholders, industry and labour unions across Australia and New Zealand.
The review process is being undertaken in accordance with Standards Australia procedures. Responsible Wood is accredited as a Standards Development Organisation (SDO) and is accredited to develop Australian and New Zealand Standards in line with recognised standards development processes.
The Responsible Wood Certification Scheme, of which AS/NZS 4708:2021 is a key component, is endorsed by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) – the world’s largest forest certification system.
Stakeholders are invited to review the draft Standard and provide feedback by 7 August 2026. The draft Standard and submission form are available via the Responsible Wood website:
Draft Standard:
https://www.responsiblewood.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/AS-NZS-4708-2021-Amendment-One-Public-Comment-Draft-May-2026.docx
Submission form:
https://www.responsiblewood.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/AS-NZS-4708-2021-Ammendment-1-Public-Comment-Submission-Sheet-May-26.docx
Source: Responsible Wood
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