MOSSWOOD Wildlife sanctuary owner and koala carer, Tracey Wilson of Koroit, has contributed to the release of the new draft Victorian Koala Management Strategy concerning Victoria’s koala population.

The State Government is taking action to ensure the long-term protection and survival of Victoria’s koalas and their habitat, and is encouraging Victorians to provide feedback as part of a new strategy.

“This is a really important opportunity for anyone who has had an encounter with a koala or cares about their future, to have their say,” Ms Wilson said.

The strategy was based on the best available science to guide conservation of koala’s habit and to ensure their security, sustainability and health into the future.

Since the previous 2004 strategy was released, new issues impacting koalas have emerged in Victoria and others have become more significant, including climate change, genetic diversity and extreme bushfires.

The strategy was developed by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, (DELWP) in collaboration with traditional owners, scientists, animal welfare organisations, wildlife carers, the blue gum plantation industry, veterinarians and other government agencies from Victoria and interstate.

Estimates from the first state-wide koala abundance model, which was developed by scientists from the Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, are also reflected in the draft strategy.

The model estimates a state-wide koala population of 460,000, with an estimated 413,000 koalas in native forest and woodland and a further 47,000 koalas in eucalypt plantations.

Koalas are not yet listed as endangered in Victoria, but have recently been listed as threatened in Queensland, the ACT and NSW.

Energy, Environment and Climate Change minister, Lily D’Ambrosio said, “koalas are one of our most loved species, known all over the world over as a symbol of Australia’s unique wildlife.”

“This strategy will guide how we conserve and manage Victoria’s koalas into the future.

“This is an opportunity for the Victorian community to have their say and make sure our koala populations and their habitat, are healthy and resilient for future generations.”

“Although there is seemingly an abundance of koalas in the area at the moment, their survivability depends on a number of critical factors all of which require dedicated, sustainable management, for their future.

“Habitat is critical to their sustainability and I am concerned that there is not enough focus on this going forward.”

To view the draft strategy or provide feedback visit engage.vic.gov.au/VKMS.