Media Release | 18 June 2025
Bevan Eatts MLA
Shadow Minister for Forestry
Shadow Minister for Forestry and Member for Warren–Blackwood, Bevan Eatts MLA, has strongly opposed the Cook Labor Government’s CALM Amendment Bill in Parliament, describing it as “the legislative burial of a proud, sustainable industry.”
Mr Eatts warned the Bill would increase risk to regional communities, forest health, and public trust, the result of a decision made without scientific evidence, genuine regional consultation, or a credible transition strategy.
“This isn’t a conservation milestone, it’s mismanagement of a natural system we once stewarded with knowledge, skill, and care,” Mr Eatts said.
“We haven’t just lost trees, we’ve lost jobs, bushfire response capability, and the identity of communities like Manjimup, Nannup, and Greenbushes.”
He condemned the hypocrisy of Labor’s claims that native forestry is unsustainable, noting the Forest Products Commission still holds international certification for sustainable forest management.
“If WA’s native forestry was truly unsustainable, why is that certification still in place? The Labor Government is ignoring its own evidence to justify a political decision,” he said.
Mr Eatts also expressed alarm at the loss of skilled forestry workers and equipment that once formed a vital part of WA’s bushfire response capacity.
“This isn’t just about trees, it’s about rejecting policy made without science, transparency, or the voices of those who know these forests. It’s about defending regional communities, supporting practical fire mitigation, and ensuring our natural resources are managed, not abandoned.”
Mr Eatts reaffirmed his commitment to working with forestry stakeholders, fire management experts, and local communities to fight for a practical, science-based, and regionally inclusive approach to forest management.
ENDS
