Motorists travelling along Bells Line of Road are being urged to slow down and stay alert for koalas, with additional signage being installed to help protect local koalas during the breeding season.

Two Variable Message Signs (VMS) will be installed along key sections of Bells Line of Road, by Transport for NSW, with those signs being specifically deployed during the koala breeding season when koala movement increases significantly.

One will be deployed along Old Bells Line of Road, Kurrajong Hills and the other along Bells Line of Road, Kurrajong Heights. Koala breeding season is from August to February.

Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said the signs are an important reminder for drivers to take extra care on one of the region's key transport routes.

“I want to thank the NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, for acting to protect both our local wildlife and drivers.

"Bells Line of Road runs through important koala habitat, and during breeding season koalas are much more active and likely to cross roads as they search for mates and establish territory," Ms Templeman said.

"Every year, vehicle strikes have a devastating impact on local koala populations. Slowing down, particularly at dawn and dusk, can make all the difference."

Ms Templeman said the installation of the Variable Message Signs is a practical measure that complements ongoing efforts to improve road safety and protect native wildlife.

"These signs provide a timely reminder to drivers that they are travelling through koala country and that extra vigilance is needed.

"I appreciate the strong collaboration with Minister Aitchison's office to deliver measures that help keep both motorists and wildlife safe."

"These signs encourage drivers to remain alert and reduce their speed in areas where koala activity is known to increase during breeding season," said The Hon. Peter Primrose MLC – Member of the Legislative Council.

"Simple actions such as slowing down and paying attention to roadside signage can help reduce wildlife collisions and protect one of Australia's most iconic native species."

Motorists are reminded to obey all speed limits, remain alert for wildlife, particularly during dawn, dusk and at night, and take extra care when travelling through known koala habitats along Bells Line of Road.

ENDS