In the most recent set of ETS announcements forests registered in the ETS before 2019 will not be able to transition to averaging accounting. Other announcements include provision for foresters using averaging to offset their liabilities by planting an equivalent forest elsewhere and that foresters using averaging won't have to pay back NZUs after adverse events. What has not been clear is when the legislation will be introduced to Parliament. Officials say that timing of the legislation is in the hands of Ministers and is imminent. The detail in the legislation to be introduced to Parliament will have a bearing on the degree to which foresters might benefit from the changes. A cautious approach should be taken to financial planning until this detail is available.