Illegal firewood removal poses a significant threat to our local parks, forests and reserves, which jeopardises critical wildlife habitat and Aboriginal scar trees.

Many threatened species live in mature, hollow bearing trees, so ensuring they remain in our environment is critical to the survival of these important species. In addition, many native animals like possums, birds and flying foxes eat different parts of the trees as part of their diets. In response to this escalating issue, the Conservation Regulator established Taskforce Ironbark. This regulatory focus aims to detect and disrupt commercial scale, illegal firewood operations, raise awareness about sourcing firewood lawfully, and promote responsible firewood consumption.

Taskforce Ironbark is urging Victorians to:

• Understand where, when, how much and what firewood you can legally collect by visiting: https://www.vic.gov.au/sourcing-firewood
• Purchase firewood from suppliers who have sourced timber legally. Ensure sellers can tell you where the wood is from, provide you with a receipt, and explain why the firewood may be cheaper than the going market rate.
• Explore alternative heating and cooking methods and support sustainable firewood sources to reduce dependence on illegal practices.
• Financial assistance is available for eligible households and people on low incomes who rely on firewood for heating and cooking. For more information visit www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/energy concession-and-support

The Conservation Regulator relies on community information to combat illegal firewood activity. If you suspect firewood theft or sales of illegal firewood, please report your information to Crime Stoppers Victoria online or on 1800 333 000.