The Nature Conservation Council urges the NSW Government to consult widely when drafting its new koala planning policy.
It has been reported that Environment Minister Matt Kean and Deputy Premier Nationals Leader John Barilaro are working on a new deal to protect koalas that includes paying farmers to conserve koala habitat. [1]
“We welcome anything and everything that is going enhance protections for koalas,” Nature Conservation Council Chief Executive Chris Gambian said.
“Unfortunately, last time a few players drafted the policy on the back of the envelope without consulting widely and that led to problems.
“All stakeholders need confidence in a new koala policy, so it is essential that they are all invited to the table: farmers, scientists, local government, conservationists.
“We are ready to work with everyone, especially the farmers, to find a way forward that is based on the very best science to ensure koalas have a future.
“To ensure a just and durable outcome, the solution must be tailored for different circumstances.
“All landscapes are different, region by region, so we need plans that make sense for each region.
“By adopting a science-based, regional approach with wide consultation we can take the politics out of this issue and get the outcome we all desire – a doubling of koala numbers.”
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