This week I welcomed the introduction of new Private Native Forestry Codes of Practice (PNF Codes) that will ensure long-term sustainability for the industry and provide robust environmental protections for NSW’s Farm Forests.
The new PNF Codes will come into effect on Monday, 2 May 2022 and are part of the final stage of the Private Native Forestry Review which commenced in 2018.
Farm Forestry is a valuable industry across the Bathurst Electorate and recently, producers have had to deal with unexpected challenges brought on by floods and the impacts of COVID-19.
The new Codes include simplified operating standards that enable a clearer interpretation of the PNF Codes, while also allowing landholder to achieve better forest management and environmental outcomes.
Four PNF Codes will be released, which apply to specific regions and forest types across NSW, including Northern NSW, Southern NSW, River Red Gum Forests, and Cypress and Western Hardwood Forests.
Under the new PNF Codes, landholders will receive increased support and engagement with Local Land Services during the planning stages of forest management.
For more information on PNF in NSW visit the Local Land Services website www.lls.nsw.gov.au/pnforestry
$9 MILLION TO KEEP OUR YOUTH ON TRACK
The NSW Government has announced an extra $9 million will be spent to extend the highly successful Youth on Track program until December 2023, allowing more young people to benefit from the program.
The early intervention program, run by Youth Justice NSW supports at-risk young people aged 10-17 and delivers positive outcomes for young people who might otherwise be behind bars.
By intervening early and providing young people with the support they need using a multi-agency approach, we can engage them in education, mental health services, family supports and behaviour change that help to significantly reduce their risk of reoffending.
Youth on Track operates in the Central West as well as many other areas across NSW. Referrals to the program are made by police, schools and a range of family support services, health and justice services providers.
This program really empowers young people to avoid re-offending, make positive decisions and take control of their lives.”
