Understanding Australia’s Illegal logging reforms: An overview of the March 3 Rule changes

In December 2024, the Federal Government announced that the new Illegal Logging Prohibition Rules 'Rules' would be effective as of 3 March 2025, with a transition period until early September 2025. 

With evolving due diligence requirements, and increased enforcement measures (including the ability to publicly publish details of non-compliance), staying informed about these changes is not optional for importers of timber products — it is essential.

Who should attend

Anyone who is importing regulated timber products in the following tariff code chapters:

• 44 – for wood and articles of wood
• 47 – for pulp of wood
• 48 – for paper and paperboard
• 94 – for furniture

View full list of item codes in Scheule 5 of the new Rules here

Retailers who are verifying compliance in their supply chains

Processors of raw logs within Australia

Event Outline

Introduction

• Overview of existing illegal logging laws, and historical development
• Purpose and significance of the 2025 legislative reforms.
  
  

Overview of Legislative Changes – what we know so far

• Introduction to the Illegal Logging Prohibition Amendment Act 2024 and the Illegal Logging Prohibition Rules 2024.
• Overview of specific changes in due diligence requirements and risk assessment pathways, including:
   –   What processes and documentation are required to maintain a compliant due diligence system under the new rules.
   –   How the two new risk assessment pathways differ from the existing requirements
  
  

Navigating the notice requirement

• How and when is notice required?
  
  

Exemptions and Special Cases

• Due Diligence Exemption for repeat imports (in limited circumstances)
• Exemption for processors who harvest their own raw logs.
• Discussion of other potential exemptions and their applicability.
  
  

Enhanced Enforcement and Compliance Strategies

• Overview of the department's new enforcement powers and what they mean for businesses.
• What are the arrangements during the transition period?
  
  

Q&A session

• Attendee questions
• Available resources for further assistance and clarification.

Who are Hikari Solutions?

At Hikari Solutions, we believe ‘Better is Possible’, and specialise in equipping businesses with the knowledge and practical tools they need to navigate complex compliance and regulatory environments with confidence.  

Join our expert-led information sessions as we break down what these changes mean for the timber industry, giving you the clarity and confidence to stay ahead of the changes, make the necessary updates on time, and ensure ongoing compliance for your business. 

If you are new to compliance in the timber and forest products industry, we also have a suite of templates to assist you to meet your due diligence requirements.