Important: This page is an independent reference summary. Verify classification decisions against the official ABS source before using them for tax, licensing, immigration or compliance purposes.

Role overview

Forestry Operations Supervisors (ANZSCO 363113) coordinate and oversee operational activities in Australia's forestry sector. These professionals supervise teams engaged in timber harvesting, plantation management, forest conservation, and related operations. They work across both native forests and commercial plantations, ensuring that forestry activities comply with environmental regulations, workplace safety standards, and production targets.

This classification falls within the Senior Aquaculture, Crop and Forestry Workers unit group and represents a supervisory role that requires both technical forestry knowledge and team management capabilities. The occupation is part of Australia's legacy ANZSCO classification system, which continues to be used for statistical, migration, and cross-referencing purposes despite being originally published in 2006.

Key tasks in practice

While ANZSCO does not provide specific task details for this occupation, Forestry Operations Supervisors typically perform duties including:

  • Planning and coordinating daily forestry operations including harvesting, planting, and silvicultural activities
  • Supervising crews engaged in tree felling, log extraction, and timber processing operations
  • Implementing workplace health and safety procedures specific to forestry environments
  • Monitoring compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable forest management practices
  • Maintaining equipment and coordinating maintenance schedules for forestry machinery
  • Training and supervising forestry workers in proper techniques and safety protocols
  • Recording production data and preparing operational reports for management

Skill level explanation

ANZSCO 363113 is classified at Skill Level 3, which indicates occupations that typically require:

  • An AQF Certificate III or IV qualification, OR
  • At least three years of relevant experience

In practice, Forestry Operations Supervisors generally possess substantial field experience in forestry operations combined with supervisory training. Many hold certifications in forest operations, heavy machinery operation, or workplace safety. The skill level reflects the combination of technical forestry knowledge, equipment operation skills, and personnel management capabilities required for this supervisory role.

Industry context

Forestry Operations Supervisors work primarily in industries classified under ANZSIC codes including:

  • 0510 - Forestry and Logging (timber production operations)
  • 0529 - Forestry Support Services (contracting and specialist services)
  • 7312 - Heavy Machinery and Scaffolding Rental (equipment support)

Employment occurs across both public and private sector forestry operations, with significant concentration in regions with established timber industries such as Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. The role involves working in various forest environments, from native forests to commercial plantations, and may include both harvesting and conservation-focused operations depending on the employer and location.