top of page
NSW FOREST COLLECTIVE
Frequently Asked Questions
We get it - protecting native forests is complex, and there’s a lot of misinformation out there. This page is here to help. We've compiled answers to the most common questions we hear from people just like you - locals, supporters, and anyone curious about the campaign.
From what we’re fighting for to how you can get involved, this section breaks things down clearly and honestly. Whether you're wondering about the legality of protests, the role of plantations, or how logging impacts fire risk and wildlife - you’ll find the answers here.
Don’t see your question? Reach out to us via the Contact page - we’re a grassroots movement powered by community, and we’re always happy to chat.
Native forest logging involves cutting down wild, biodiverse forests that evolved over millennia. Plantation logging harvests fast-growing trees (usually exotic species) planted specifically for timber. While industrial plantations still raise environmental concerns, they don’t involve destroying ancient, living ecosystems in the same way native forest logging does.
Plantations are already capable of supplying Australia’s timber needs, yet native forests are still logged for low-value products like woodchips and packaging. Protecting native forests is not just possible – it’s essential.
Some of it is legal on paper - but that doesn’t mean it’s right, or that laws are being followed. Many logging operations breach their own codes of practice, fail to properly survey for endangered species, or operate in areas that should be protected. Community monitoring regularly uncovers illegal or unethical activity that authorities fail to act on.
Forestry often writes its own rules – and even then, it breaks them. There are countless examples of habitat trees being cut, endangered species left unprotected, and logging taking place in reserves or parks. When caught, agencies often respond by rewriting their own regulations to cover their tracks, rather than facing consequences. This is a system designed to protect industry, not ecosystems.
We use a range of tactics - from peaceful direct action and forest blockades, to community outreach, media work, citizen science, and political pressure. Every part of the campaign supports our goal of ending native forest logging and protecting ecosystems for the long term.
We also document breaches, survey forests for endangered species, monitor water and soil quality, and create powerful media to raise public awareness. Some people take action on the frontlines, while others work behind the scenes – all of it is vital.
Not at all. While some people choose to take arrestable action, there are many other ways to contribute. You can help with camp logistics, media, legal support, outreach, fundraising, research, cooking, or just showing up to events. Everyone has something to offer, and every role matters.
There are also ways to participate in direct action without risking arrest – including support roles on the ground, helping from camp, or working on comms and logistics. You can also attend rallies, town protests and public events with no risk of legal consequences. Being part of this movement doesn’t require being arrested – just a commitment to protect forests.
There’s still plenty you can do. Write to your local MPs, organise a fundraiser or info night, help us spread the word online, or support with donations. We also welcome remote volunteers to help with admin, research, digital media, or outreach in your local area.
Even from a distance, you can have a powerful impact – by educating your community, building public pressure, and helping fund and support the people on the ground.
Always check in with organisers beforehand, and follow any safety guidelines provided. We recommend downloading Signal, a secure encrypted messaging app we use for all sensitive communications. If you’re considering taking part in direct action, come along to a training session so you know your rights and can make informed decisions.
Organisers will always provide thorough legal briefings and answer your questions – but we encourage everyone to seek independent legal advice as well, especially if you are on a temporary visa, have bail conditions, prior offences, or are under a good behaviour bond. Most relevant offences fall under the Forestry Regulations 2022, which are available online and worth reading beforehand.
We are a non-hierarchical, grassroots organisation that makes decisions collectively. We use consensus-based processes and encourage open dialogue. This means everyone’s voice matters, and we work together to find decisions we can all stand behind.
We believe movements are stronger when power is shared – not concentrated – and when decisions are made by those doing the work, not distant leaders or executives.
All content is copyrighted by the campaign and contributing photographers or videographers. You’re welcome to share our media with credit for educational, journalistic, or campaign-aligned purposes. Please do not use our content for harassment, profit, or misleading representations.
If you're not sure whether your use fits, please get in touch with us to ask permission. We’re happy to support genuine allies who want to raise awareness or tell the story respectfully.
If you witness illegal or damaging activity, try to document what you can safely and send it to us. We’ll work with trusted experts to verify breaches and follow up with media, legal avenues or public pressure. Signal is the best way to contact us securely if the information is sensitive.
Photos, GPS coordinates, timestamps and witness accounts are all incredibly useful. You don’t need to be an expert – just keep yourself safe and reach out. Together, we can hold the industry to account.
bottom of page
