Towards doubling koalas by 2050
Koalas in New South Wales face a range of threats, including habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation, climate change, disease, declining genetic diversity, vehicle strike, bushfire, and dog attack. These mounting pressures, exacerbated by the impacts of the Black Summer bushfires, and combined with historic declines, mean that without intervention, koalas could be extinct in New South Wales by 2050.
Taking urgent action, the NSW Government has set an ambitious goal to double koala numbers in New South Wales by 2050. The work to achieve this goal will be guided by a series of 5-year plans and investments. This strategy is the first in that series.
An investment of more than $190 million
The NSW Government has committed more than $190 million to deliver the targeted conservation actions that the strategy sets out. These actions work towards the long-term goal of doubling koala numbers in New South Wales by 2050. This funding is to 2026.
The strategy builds on the groundwork and achievements of the previous NSW Koala Strategy 2018–21, which comprised a $44.7-million investment over 3 years to stabilise koala populations.
Delivering targeted action and investment
The strategy delivers targeted investment and action under 4 pillars. These actions work together to secure habitat, support local conservation, reduce threats, and improve our knowledge. Investment and key targets under each pillar are listed below.

Key targets
- 22,000 ha of koala habitat protected
- 25,000 ha of koala habitat restored
- One area of Outstanding Biodiversity Value and 20 Assets of Intergenerational Significance for koalas secured

Key targets
- Up to 8 regional partnerships with local councils and conservation groups
- 10 koala stronghold areas better secured
- At least 10 councils supported to develop koala habitat maps

Key targets
- At least 10 vehicle strike hotspots addressed
- Up to 8 translocation projects implemented
- More than 500 vets and vet nurses to receive wildlife care training

Key targets
- Baseline surveys in up to 50 populations
- Ongoing monitoring at a minimum of 20 sites
- Koala genetic diversity mapping
- Priority research continued