Published Yesterday at 02:55 PM

Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation
The Honourable Andrew Powell

South East Queensland koala habitat to reach new heights

  • The Crisafulli Government announces $1 million to deliver improved South East Queensland koala habitat on World Wildlife Day
  • Grants of up to $75,000 available for on-ground community-led projects 
  • The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future after a decade of decline under Labor.  

The Crisafulli Government is delivering $1 million into a new program designed to revive koala habitat through locally led restoration projects across South East Queensland. 

Announced on World Wildlife Day 2026, the grants will support community groups with up to $75,000 for projects that restore and strengthen key koala habitats. 

Drawing on the expertise of local koala advocates and scientists, the community‑led projects will fill gaps in existing large‑scale restoration work, strengthening efforts to protect habitat across South East Queensland.  

Eligible organisations can also collaborate, with two or more groups able to combine resources and deliver joint projects that maximise impact on priority koala areas.  

These grants are part of the Crisafulli Government’s fresh start for Queensland after the former Labor Government failed to deliver genuine environmental support during their decade of decline.   

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government was investing in the protection of koalas.  

“Queensland is renowned for our incredible environment which includes our wildlife, which is why we’re delivering $1 million for koala habitat restoration this World Wildlife Day,” Minister Powell said.  

“These grants are just one of the ways we’re delivering genuine support for environment and builds on the work currently underway through the new SEQ Koala Strategy, with public consultation open until 15 March.  

“These grants are designed to support small-scale projects, from planting more trees in existing koala habitats, to creating new wildlife corridors in key priority areas.  

“After a decade of decline under Labor the Crisafulli Government will continue to deliver practical action to preserve koala populations across South East Queensland for future generations.”  

Eligible projects will seek to revegetate koala habitat and increase landscape connectivity at locations within a priority spatial area.  

More information on eligibility and how to apply here 

Applications close 4pm on Tuesday 31 March 2026  

The opening of these grants coincides with consultation on the Queensland Government’s new South East Queensland Koala Strategy. Queenslanders are invited to have their say until 15 March 2026.  

ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT: Ruth McCosker 0406 331 114