Here's some more Australian data to support any writings or positions you might take with regards the value of deadwood and dead trees in the environment.
First is a report from the NSW Scientific Committee findings with regards to the role of deadwood and dead trees in the survival of threatened species.
Removal of dead wood and dead tree1.doc
Second is 2005 Advice paper to the Federal Minister for the Environment and Heritage on the impact of the loss of habitat trees.
Continuing net loss of native hollow.doc
Third is a 1999 paper from SE Qld on the value of deadwood and deadtrees to wildlife and agriculture.
The_value_of_dead_wood_to_wildlife_and_agriculture.pdf
Its also very important to understand what bits of legislation are behind this recognition of the importance of habitat trees and deadwood. Federally and within each State, local authorities often make their own local laws and regulations as part of their compliance to the overarching legislation.