New Straits Times

Australia pledges RM134m to save the koala

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SYDNEY: Australia unveiled yesterday a US$34 million (RM134 million) plan to help bring its koala population back from the brink, following a rapid decline in the furry marsupial’s fortunes.

The Australian Koala Foundation estimates there may be as few as 43,000 koalas left in the wild, down from a population believed to number more than 10 million prior to European settlement of the continent in 1788.

“Koalas are a national treasure,” said Gladys Berejiklia­n, premier of New South Wales state, in announcing her government’s conservati­on plan.

“It would be such a shame if this nationally iconic marsupial did not have its future secured.”

Habitat loss, dog attacks, car strikes, climate change and disease have taken their toll on the koala.

Studies show a 26 per cent decline in the koala population in New South Wales over the last 15 to 20 years. The state lists the species as “vulnerable”, while in other parts of the country they are effectivel­y extinct.

Under the plan, thousands of hectares will be set aside to preserve the koala’s natural habitat.

Funds will be used to tackle diseases ravaging koala population­s, including chlamydia — which causes blindness, infertilit­y and death in the species.

Cash has also been earmarked for research, roadkill hotspot upgrades and a new hospital to care for sick and injured koalas. A hotline will also be set up to report koalas in trouble.

 ?? FILE PIC ?? There may be as few as 43,000 koalas left in the wild.
FILE PIC There may be as few as 43,000 koalas left in the wild.

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