In a landmark move for conservation, the New South Wales government has unveiled a $140 million funding package to fast-track the establishment of the Great Koala National Park on the state's mid-north coast. The ambitious plan aims to safeguard a crucial koala population by consolidating 175,000 hectares of state forest with existing national parks.
Premier Chris Minns announced the funding, highlighting the project's dual focus on environmental protection and economic support for regional communities transitioning away from native forestry. "This is a significant step towards securing a future for our koalas and the communities that call this region home," Minns stated.
Balancing Conservation and Community Concerns
The funding is strategically allocated across several key areas:
- $107 million for direct support to workers, businesses, and contractors affected by the native forestry transition.
- $23 million dedicated to First Nations partnerships to facilitate Indigenous ownership and management of the new park lands.
- $10 million earmarked for planning and establishment costs to ensure the park's efficient development.
Environment Minister Penny Sharpe emphasised the critical nature of the initiative, noting that the area contains an estimated 20% of NSW's remaining koalas. "The Great Koala National Park represents our best chance to prevent the extinction of koalas in New South Wales," Sharpe asserted.
Industry Backlash and Political Tensions
The announcement has sparked immediate criticism from forestry representatives and opposition parties. The Nationals have condemned the decision, arguing it will devastate local timber communities and eliminate hundreds of jobs in an already struggling sector.
Shadow agriculture minister Tara Moriarty challenged the government's job creation claims, stating the initiative would "destroy jobs and destroy communities" across the mid-north coast. Industry groups have echoed these concerns, warning of significant economic impacts on regional towns dependent on forestry.
The government maintains that the transition package will create new opportunities in land management, conservation, and tourism while protecting an iconic Australian species from further decline.
