FSC® ANZ Indigenous Working Group becomes First Nations Committee

FSC Australia and New Zealand’s (FSC ANZ) Indigenous Working Group has formally transitioned to the First Nations Committee (FNC), reflecting the growing preference for ‘First Nations’ terminology and reinforcing the Committee’s ongoing role in advancing First Nations perspectives and championing FSC ANZ’s commitment to responsible forest management.

Since its establishment in 2014, the Indigenous Working Group (IWG) has played an important role in shaping the direction of FSC ANZ, ensuring First Nations voices and perspectives are meaningfully represented. As broader conversations around identity and representation have evolved, so too has the IWG’s role and place within the organisation.

With full endorsement of the FSC ANZ Board of Directors, the IWG steps forward as the First Nations Committee, a transition that reflects the growing preference for ‘First Nations’ terminology across both Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. This change also aligns with proposed updates to the revised Forest Stewardship Standard of Australia, which also includes a shift from ‘Indigenous’ to ‘First Nations’ terminology, and has just entered its second round of public consultation.

At its inception, the title ‘working group’ signalled a defined, time-bound mandate. Over the years, however, the FNC’s scope, influence, and responsibilities have expanded well beyond those initial parameters. Reframing the group as a ‘committee’ acknowledges its ongoing and integral role within FSC ANZ, as well as its enduring partnership in guiding the future of responsible forestry across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.

Today, the FNC stands as a diverse and dynamic collective of First Nations representatives, united by a shared vision to strengthen leadership, knowledge, and influence within the forestry sector, for the benefit of current and future generations. All ten members bring a range of cultural perspectives, lived experience, and regional insight, grounded in deep connections to Country, community, and culture.

Tolita Davis-Angeles, Chair of the FNC, says, “Over the past year, our Committee has grown significantly, uniting even more voices and perspectives from across our communities. We look forward to continuing to deepen our influence within the forestry sector, ensuring First Nations values and knowledge are central to the future of responsible forest management in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.” 

MAIN PIC: The First Nations Committee. L to R: Jacob Cassidy, Shawn Wondunna-Foley, Adrian Bauwens, Tolita Davis Angeles, Cheryl Wright, Jacqueline Te Mataara Iorangi, Thomas Holden and on screen, Te Ngaehe Wanikau. Image: courtesy FSC®