The Australian Government is investing close to $3.5 million to create and conserve a koala climate stronghold across the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area.

The commitment, made by the Australian Government in the 2025 election campaign, will help better manage areas that offer potential safe havens for koalas.

The project, to be led by Science for Wildlife, includes prioritising and addressing threats to koalas and identifying refuge areas.

The project will be delivered in partnership and includes the establishment of a Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area Stewardship Alliance, coordinated by the Blue Mountains World Heritage Institute and including key partners such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service and local councils. The project also includes support for a responsible pet ownership program and tools to coordinate wildlife emergency response management.

The funding is part of the Australian Government’s Local Environmental Projects Program that is protecting and improving our environment and heritage.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman:

“The grant funding delivers on my election commitment for the Koala Climate Stronghold.

“This project will improve biodiversity and support local communities to connect and care for nature, empowering all of us to be active stewards of nature and improve heritage outcomes around the country.

“We’re investing in projects that conserve, protect, and sustainably manage Australia’s natural environment and heritage through locally informed, place-based action.

“I’m proud to be part of a government committed to protecting our local environment and World Heritage sites, ensuring future generations can enjoy our unique biodiversity.”

Quotes attributable to Dr Kellie Leigh, Executive Director of Science for Wildlife:

“Science for Wildlife’s research has shown that the varied nature of the terrain in the World Heritage Area, with its deep gullies and exposed ridgelines, provides koalas with options to seek refuge from extreme temperatures and weather. That’s likely to apply to a range of other species and it makes this protected area network a potential climate refuge.

“The World Heritage area is three times the size of the Great Koala National Park, and over the last decade Science for Wildlife has documented a number of large and important koala populations in this region, with more to uncover.  We’re delighted that we’ll be working with the Commonwealth Government and local partners to help ensure that koalas and other species have a future here.”

ENDS