Minister for Forests (New South Wales)

The Minister for Forests (New South Wales) is a portfolio in the New South Wales Government responsible for forestry management and conservation within the state of New South Wales, Australia. The Minister oversees the Forestry Corporation of NSW, a state-owned corporation responsible for the sustainable management of native forests and plantations.

The Minister's responsibilities typically include:

• Policy development and implementation related to forestry.
• Oversight of sustainable forest management practices.
• Management of native forests and plantations for timber production, conservation, and recreation.
• Regulation of forestry activities on both public and private land.
• Management of bushfire risk within forestry areas.
• Liaison with industry stakeholders, environmental groups, and the community.
• Administration of relevant legislation, such as the Forestry Act.

The portfolio has existed under various names throughout the history of the New South Wales Government, often combined with other natural resource management portfolios. The specific responsibilities and title of the Minister may vary depending on the government of the day and the priorities of the Premier. The position is typically held by a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly or the New South Wales Legislative Council. The title of the minister is often combined with other portfolios, such as Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW, or Minister for Natural Resources.