The Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is commending the Teal independents for their support in advocating for the protection of vital agricultural lands that are critical for farming and the survival of the vulnerable koala population. Independents are calling for a trigger to be implemented in the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, that would halt development on agricultural lands.
AKF recognises the essential role that agricultural lands play in providing habitat and food for koalas. These lands are also vital for the wider ecosystem, providing critical biodiversity and ecosystem services that are essential for human well-being.
"AKF is grateful political independents, Kylea Tink MP and Sophie Scamps MP are recognising the importance of protecting agricultural land and key habitats. This is something we had advocated for years," said Deborah Tabart OAM, Chair of AKF.
AKF believes that a more comprehensive approach is needed to protect key habitats and koalas, including a Koala Protection Act and Human Plans of Management, rather than relying on Koala Plans of Management which have not been effective in preventing habitat destruction.
"We need to take urgent action to protect koalas. We believe that a Koala Protection Act, which recognises koalas as a threatened species and provides enforceable protections for their habitat, is the best way to ensure their survival. In addition, Human Plans of Management would allow for greater community input and engagement in decision-making, ensuring a more sustainable future for both koalas and all creatures great and small," added Tabart.
AKF is committed to working with political independents, the government, and other stakeholders to ensure that agricultural lands are protected, and koalas are given the best chance of survival. By putting in place a trigger to halt development on agricultural lands and implementing a comprehensive approach to koala protection, we can ensure that these critical habitats are protected, and koalas continue to thrive for generations to come.
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