Critical koala and wildlife habitat restored across the Lockyer Valley

A new regional initiative to improve koala and wildlife habitat is already making inroads in the Lockyer Valley, with almost eight hectares of land restored, and more to come.

Eleven South East Queensland (SEQ) councils have joined forces to deliver the Restore and Reconnect SEQ Koala Habitat program, which aims to improve habitat quality, enhance wildlife movement and strengthen key ecological corridors across SEQ.

Guided by the South East Queensland Koala Conservation Strategy 2025-2026 and the SEQ Areas of Regional Koala Significance, the project involves targeted on-ground works, including intensive weed management and revegetation.

Environment Portfolio Councillor Cheryl Steinhardt said the program, which runs through to June 2027, was already delivering results in the Lockyer Valley.

“Across four properties located in Laidley, Mulgowie and Helidon Hills, approximately 7.5 hectares of assisted natural regeneration has commenced with the removal of lantana to make way for the regeneration of native species,” she said.

“In Laidley, 1.5 hectares of new koala habitat has been established, transforming previously degraded land into future canopy cover that will provide food and shelter for koalas and other wildlife. This site sits adjacent to the Little Liverpool Range corridor, a vital link for wildlife movement.”

Cr Steinhardt said vegetation restoration efforts will expand further into the 2026–27 financial year, building on early successes and ensuring long-term habitat recovery.

“This initiative is a strong example of partnership in action, bringing together local knowledge, regional planning and government collaboration at both state and local level to achieve meaningful environmental outcomes,” she said.

“Through strategic investment and collaboration, this project is not only improving koala habitat and connectivity, but it’s ensuring a healthier, more connected landscape for future generations of wildlife.”

The $155,000 Lockyer Valley component of the project is being delivered by Lockyer Valley Regional Council in collaboration with Healthy Land & Water and funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI).