Great Koala National Park Approved

The New South Wales (NSW) government has officially established the Great Koala National Park, a major step in saving the declining koala population. This announcement has been welcomed by environmental activists, scientists, and the public who have long called for stronger protection of Australia’s iconic species.

The park covers a total of 476,000 hectares, including an additional 176,000 hectares of state forest newly designated as protected land. With this decision, more than 12,000 koalas, or about 20 percent of NSW’s population, will now be directly safeguarded.

Commitment to Koala Protection

Since koalas were declared endangered, habitat loss from logging and land clearing has been their greatest threat. The NSW environment minister emphasized that the park’s creation is part of the state’s duty to protect its natural heritage. “Koalas are a symbol of Australia. Our responsibility is to ensure that future generations can still see them living freely in the wild,” she said.

Beyond koalas, the park is also home to 36,000 greater gliders and over a hundred other threatened species, including the powerful owl, glossy black cockatoos, and spider orchids.

Immediate Logging Moratorium

Beginning 8 September 2025, the government will enforce a logging moratorium across the proposed park boundaries. However, existing recreational permits and licenses will remain valid during the transition period. The government has promised consultations with communities, industry, and Indigenous groups before new rules are formally enacted in 2026.

This move has been praised by conservation groups but has also raised concern in the timber industry. About six of more than 25 regional sawmills are expected to be directly affected.

The park decision will impact approximately 300 timber workers. To ease the transition, the NSW government has introduced a support package that includes wage subsidies, small business assistance, and access to legal and mental health services.

Additionally, the government is creating 100 new jobs within NSW Parks and Wildlife Service, along with 8 cultural heritage ranger positions for Indigenous communities.

Economically, the park is expected to deliver significant benefits. Authorities estimate tourism revenue of up to AUD 163 million, with an additional 85,000 visitor nights per year along the NSW mid-north coast. An extra AUD 60 million in funding has also been allocated for park services, on top of the AUD 80 million already pledged.

Carbon Role and Sustainability

The national park will also function as a carbon credit project. Through the Improved Native Forest Management (INFM) method, the government can generate Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) for trading, providing additional funding to ensure sustainable park management.

Indigenous Community Participation

The NSW government has engaged the Gumbaynggirr and Dunghutti peoples in the planning process. An advisory panel of Indigenous leaders, local communities, and industry representatives has been formed to ensure the park not only protects biodiversity but also honors cultural heritage.

A Gumbaynggirr spokesperson stated, “These forests are the home of our ancestors. Involving us in their care is a mark of respect and the best way to maintain balance in nature.”

Controversy and Criticism

While widely celebrated, the opposition argues the plan could “obliterate” regional economies dependent on timber. Opposition leaders claim the government has rushed forward without a clear long-term plan for affected industries.

Environmental groups disagree, insisting that the long-term value of ecotourism far outweighs short-lived profits from logging.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The park will be formally gazetted as a national park in 2026, once legal and technical requirements—including carbon project registration—are met. This milestone is expected to mark one of the most significant conservation moves in Australia’s history.

The government has also pledged ongoing community involvement in drafting long-term management plans, covering recreation, bushfire management, and environmental education for younger generations.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Great Koala National Park is a monumental decision combining conservation, economic opportunity, and cultural respect. With protections for thousands of koalas and other endangered species, alongside strong tourism potential, the park stands as a clear example that conservation and development can go hand in hand.

For further context, read related coverage on koala habitat loss and environmental law reform or explore more environmental policy news on Olam News.