In a monumental decision hailed as a victory for conservation, the New South Wales government has cemented the creation of the Great Koala National Park and instituted an immediate prohibition on logging across the vast expanse of its proposed territory.
The announcement, made by Environment Minister Penny Sharpe, marks the culmination of a decade-long campaign by environmentalists, local communities, and Traditional Owners. The park will unite 315,000 hectares of state forests with existing protected areas, creating a sprawling sanctuary of over 300,000 hectares specifically designed to protect koala populations from habitat loss.
An Immediate End to Logging Operations
Effective immediately, all native forest logging operations within the proposed park's boundaries are suspended. This swift action is intended to prevent any further damage to core koala habitats while the formal process of establishing the national park is finalised.
This move directly addresses one of the primary threats to the endangered koala, whose numbers have plummeted due to bushfires, disease, and habitat destruction from logging and land clearing.
A Long-Awaited Sanctuary
The chosen area for the park on the state's mid-north coast is not arbitrary. It is a recognised biodiversity hotspot, home to an estimated 20% of NSW's remaining wild koalas. The protected corridor will provide a crucial refuge for the species to feed, breed, and recover.
"The Great Koala National Park is an iconic place and it deserves the highest level of protection," Minister Sharpe stated, emphasising the government's commitment to preserving this natural heritage for future generations.
Balancing Conservation and Forestry Transition
The government has also acknowledged the impact on the forestry industry, confirming that affected timber mills and contractors will receive support. This includes honouring existing wood supply agreements and providing transition assistance, ensuring the move supports both environmental and community goals.
This landmark decision is seen as a critical step in NSW's broader biodiversity strategy, setting a new benchmark for conservation efforts in Australia and offering a lifeline to a beloved national icon.
