2016 saw significant progress in the development of FSC's first National Standard.
This year we saw the Standard progress between Drafts 3 and 4, with stakeholder feedback equipping the Standards Development Group to reach agreement on a number of areas. These included the High Conservation Values Framework, a simplified approach to Scale Intensity and Risk, a refined approach around Sustainable Yield, and with the help of our Indigenous Work Group, culturally appropriate and robust controls around Indigenous Rights. The draft Standard also includes new requirements for social impact evaluation and refined provisions for engagement with stakeholders and local communities.
After three years of discussions and development, this month the Standards Development Group agreed on a draft to be submitted to FSC International. Whilst the group were unable to reach consensus on three important areas relating to workers rights, riparian definitions and representative sample areas (Annex D), their approval of the balance of the Standard is an amazing achievement.
FSC Australia will work through its National Board to support FSC International in their review of the draft Standard and resolution of outstanding areas. It's anticipated submission to FSC International will occur in late January 2017 .
FSC Australia acknowledges the tremendous efforts of the Standards Development Group and their work to date. We also want to thank members and stakeholders who took the time to provide feedback on drafts of the Standard and provide input over the last three years. Thank you so much for remaining engaged and supporting us to create a Standard that truly reflects the aspirations of the Australian community.
We will continue to keep you updated on progress with FSC International and resolution of outstanding areas.