Navigating forest dieback and climate succession: Practical guidance for forest managers

Australia’s forests and woodlands are entering a period of rapid ecological change, driven primarily by the impacts of climate change. The landscape is shifting from one of relative stability to one marked by uncertainty, novel threats, and complex interactions between climate, disturbance, and forest health. This means that forest managers must reconsider established approaches and assumptions in the light of new evidence and emerging risks. Recent years have seen a marked increase in tree mortality and dieback events, with climate factors such as rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather now recognised as the dominant drivers. These changes are not only altering the composition and function of forest ecosystems but also challenging the effectiveness of traditional management strategies. As a result, managers must now navigate dynamic environments where the boundaries between natural processes and maladaptive responses are increasingly blurred. This guidance document responds to these challenges by translating current research, policy developments, and practical experience into actionable tools and frameworks. It is designed to support forest managers, policymakers, and stakeholders as they adapt planning and interventions to safeguard forest values and ecosystem services. The sections provide a plain-English overview of dieback and climate succession, review the evolving context for forest management, and introduce adaptive planning approaches suited to the realities of climate-driven change. Throughout, the emphasis is on practical, evidence-based strategies that can be tailored to diverse management contexts. By fostering collaboration, encouraging ongoing learning, and promoting transparent decision-making, this document aims to equip managers with the resources needed to respond effectively to uncertainty and secure the long-term health of Australia’s forests.