- Crisafulli and Albanese Governments delivering a new state-of-the-art research and education campus at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital with construction officially underway.
- Facility to transform wildlife conservation and create a unique ecotourism experience.
- Part of $39.6 million commitment for five new and expanded wildlife hospitals.
The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments are marking the start of construction at a new research and education campus, the Currumbin Wildlife Institute at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.
The world‑class research and education campus is expected to open by late 2027 and will provide an invaluable resource for one of the world's busiest wildlife hospitals.
The state‑of‑the‑art facilities will help more sick and injured wildlife while giving visitors the chance to see real‑time treatment, supporting the growing demand for ecotourism experiences in Queensland.
The Albanese Government is investing $8 million towards the new facility under the regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP), the Crisafulli Government is investing $4 million, and the City of Gold Coast committed $2 million towards the expected $16.6 million project cost.
The new campus is one of the five new and expanded wildlife hospitals being delivered throughout Queensland thanks to a $39.6 million commitment from the Crisafulli Government.
Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain said the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital is a treasured institution and is pleased to see the start of works to make it even better.
"This new campus will build on the region's strengths as a destination for wildlife tourism along with caring for our priceless native wildlife," Minister McBain said.
"We are investing in projects like these to create economic and environmental opportunities across Australia."
Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the new campus is on track to become a leading centre for wildlife care, combining research, education, and ecotourism.
"Today marks an exciting milestone with construction underway on a world-class research and education campus at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital," Minister Powell said.
"We're delivering world-class facilities for our veterinarians and carers, boosting care for injured wildlife and backing the lifesaving work they do every day, while driving global advancements in treatment.
"Once open, this expansion will offer a rare window into our veterinarians' work, inspire the next generation, and deliver an unforgettable ecotourism experience, strengthening Queensland's position as a global leader in the sector."
Member for Currumbin Laura Gerber said it was fantastic to see construction begin on the world-leading Currumbin Wildlife Institute.
"This Institute will cement our community as a global leader in wildlife care and conservation, create local jobs, boost tourism and ensure our unique wildlife is protected for generations to come," Minister Gerber said.
"The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital treats more than 16,000 animals each year, and the Crisafulli Government's investment will take their life-saving work even further - backing critical research like the koala chlamydia vaccine."
Senator for Queensland Corinne Mulholland said for nearly 80 years Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has been more than an attraction, it's a Queensland icon, and we want to make sure it continues to inspire, educate and delight families for generations to come.
"This funding will help secure that legacy, delivering a world-class research and training facility while creating even better visitor experiences and new opportunities for educational tourism," Senator Mulholland said.
"We're backing Currumbin with this massive $8 million contribution, because the Albanese Government believes we have to put the environment at the heart of our decision-making to protect the future of both Australia's precious wildlife population and human populations.
"I hope future generations will be able to get a photo hand-feeding the lorikeets, just as our parents and their parents did."
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the City's investment reflected a strong commitment to protecting native wildlife for future generations.
"Investing in the future of our city's unique wildlife can never be measured purely through its dollar value," said Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.
"The City is proud to contribute $2 million towards the institute but equally, we are proud to play a role in saving wildlife for today's, and tomorrow's, generations.
"This institute will prove a world leader in reducing admissions to the wildlife hospital and boost research and education into the complex threats facing native wildlife. On behalf of all councillors, congratulations."
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) President Mark Townend AM said today marks a significant step forward in the Trust's mission and commitment to protecting Australia's extraordinary natural heritage.
"The knowledge and research generated here will not only help protect Australia's unique wildlife and ecosystems but also preserve our natural landscape," Mr Townend AM said.
"Importantly, this project has been made possible through the shared vision and support of all three levels of government, which demonstrates what can be achieved when we work together with a common purpose - to protect Australia's wildlife and our natural heritage."
