96 macrolichens, including 12 new records, are reported for cool temperate rainforests in Tasmania. These species belong mainly to the austral cool temperate element. A descriptive account of the lichen floras from five major rainforest communities is given. Field observations suggest that substrate and light are the most important ecological factors affecting the distribution of lichens in rainforest. Although most species are widespread in Tasmania, large-scale disturbance and the fragmentation of rainforest stands is seen as a threat to their survival.