UPDATE: Growing pressure mounts on the Victorian government to release a crucial $850,000 report detailing the health and distribution of koalas, submitted five months ago. Researchers warn that the iconic species may be facing dire challenges, not only in New South Wales and Queensland but also in Victoria, where they are still considered abundant.
Experts, including Dr. Desley Whisson from Deakin University, express frustration over the secrecy surrounding the report, which could provide vital insights into preventing the koalas’ decline. “Without effective management, we could end up losing our koalas,” Dr. Whisson stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The report, titled The Status of Victoria’s Koala Population, aims to assess factors like genetic diversity and health of the population. Yet, DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) has not disclosed any findings since its completion in June, prompting accusations of a lack of transparency. “What was the point in spending all that money if it remains buried?” Dr. Whisson added.
Concerns are amplified as the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) calls the situation a “koala emergency.” IFAW’s Oceania head, Josey Sharrad, remarked, “People assume there are more of them, but the reality is they face starvation, habitat loss, and disease.”
The government faces further scrutiny following a controversial incident in which it culled over 1,061 koalas at Budj Bim National Park earlier this year, a decision that lacked transparency and raised questions about public communication. Critics, including Liberal Party MP Nick McGowan, labeled the government’s handling of koalas as “beyond reckless.”
In another alarming development, reports of a koala starvation crisis on French Island have emerged, with the government providing minimal updates. DEECA has referred inquiries to Parks Victoria, which has not responded in nearly two weeks. Investigators from the non-profit group Humane World for Animals visited the island, witnessing distressing conditions, including trees stripped of leaves.
Government estimates indicate that between 10,000 to 12,000 koalas inhabit French Island, potentially suffering from drought and overpopulation. Dr. Whisson criticized the lack of proactive management, stating that authorities should have anticipated the crisis and implemented measures to control the population.
While discussions about potential translocation of koalas are underway, sources suggest that euthanasia may also be on the table. “There’s no forward thinking,” Dr. Whisson emphasized, calling for urgent action to ensure the long-term health of Victoria’s koalas.
As the situation continues to unfold, the demand for transparency and effective management remains critical in protecting these beloved Australian icons. The community and conservationists alike await the government’s response and the release of the long-awaited report.
