Koala conservation in Australia is crucial, especially considering their endangered status (as of 2022) due to habitat loss, bushfires, disease, and human interaction. At Via Travel we are always looking for ways to be more proactive in sustainable tourism, and respecting the beautiful environments and wildlife we encounter on our tours.
With that in mind, here are some of the ways you can support koala conservation in Australia while you are travelling. Plus, you’ll meet our very own koala called Trish.
Support Local Conservation Organisations
The most obvious, and easiest way to contribute is to donate to reputable organisations like the Australian Koala Foundation or local wildlife sanctuaries like the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary or the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital dedicated to koala conservation efforts.
You could also support bushfire recovery efforts. Wildfires can have devastating impacts on koala populations and their habitats. Support organisations involved in rehabilitation and habitat restoration. Alternatively, contribute to scientific research by participating in citizen science projects focused on koala monitoring, disease research, or genetic studies.
At Via Travel we donate $2 for every traveller who joins one of our tours that includes the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. Plus we pay for a volunteer to offer a private group tour when you visit the hospital. This allows you a ‘look behind the curtain’ to meet the real amazing volunteers helping to rescue and rehab (and release if healthy) koalas.
Adopt your own koala from wherever you are (even internationally!) here.
Volunteer During Your Travels
Look for opportunities to volunteer and dedicate some of your travelling time to help this endangered species. Every volunteer makes a difference, and many organisations wouldn’t be able to do their important work without them.
But, volunteering doesn’t just mean working directly with koalas themselves. There are other ways you can do key koala conservation in Australia during your travels, including:
Educating Others
Educate yourself about koalas, their habitats, and the threats they face. Understanding their needs can help you make informed decisions to support their conservation. Plus, you’re able to pass this knowledge on to others, and increase awareness
Koala Habitat Restoration
Plant native trees and participate in tree planting programs that focus on native eucalyptus trees, the primary food source for koalas. Many organisations offer tree-planting events open to volunteers.
Respect Wildlife Zones
Follow signage and guidelines in wildlife areas to avoid disturbing koalas and their habitats. Stick to designated trails and viewing platforms whenever you’re on an excursion because you don’t know what other wildlife you could be disturbing.
This also includes being cautious on the road. If you’re driving, make sure to drive carefully, especially in areas known for koala crossings. Follow speed limits and watch out for wildlife, especially during dawn and dusk when they are most active.
Support Responsible Tourism
Choose eco-friendly tour operators and accommodations that prioritise wildlife conservation and sustainability. At Via Travel sustainability and responsible travel is one of our core values. We always want to leave a positive impact, on our tours and this goes for all wildlife, cultures, flora and fauna!
We also try to ensure all of our partners share our passion for Australia and eco-tourism so that you can be safe in the knowledge that their practices are as sustainable as possible, just like ours. Unfortunately, not all operators have this same attitude, so it’s important to do your due diligence before you choose where and who to travel with.
Become an Advocate
Support policies and initiatives that protect koala habitats, such as land conservation, habitat restoration projects, and wildlife corridors. Know that when you travel you’re having an impact, so make sure it’s a positive one and be an advocate throughout.
Educate yourself on what to do if you see a koala sighting in the wild, or how to help one in distress. Then, spread awareness and share information about koala conservation with friends, family, and on social media. Increasing awareness can lead to more support and action for koala protection.
Dispose of Waste Properly
Dispose of waste responsibly to prevent pollution of koala habitats. Avoid littering, especially in forested areas where koalas live and make sure that you’re not leaving food which can impact other local wildlife. Always carry rubbish bags with you so that you can take your litter home with you if there isn’t a suitable place.
By implementing these actions, travellers can play a significant role in supporting the conservation of koalas and their habitats in Australia. Having shared some of the ways you can become an expert in koala conservation in Australia, here’s our very own koala, Trish!
Meet Trish
Meet Trish, her full name is “Shelly Beach Road Trish” and she can be seen in the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital when you visit on your tour.
When a koala is brought in, it’s very important to register the area where it was found so that it can be released back into the right home if it’s healthy enough. It needs to go back into the environment it is used to and more importantly, the food/diet it’s accustomed to which increases its chances of full rehabilitation and survival.
If it is not healthy enough, the volunteers will care for it for the rest of its life. You’re probably wondering why her name is also “Trish”. Trish is one of the workers who rescued her and she’s been honoured for her help!
Trish may not be the best at answering emails or making coffee, but when it comes to spreading koala-ty vibes and reminding us to take life one eucalyptus leaf at a time, she’s second to none! 🍃 Let’s give a warm welcome to our fuzzy friend, Trish!
Now you can see how vital it is to keep supporting these organisations’ work. Want to see this important work in person by visiting the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital or Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary? Check out one of our tours below.
Tours That Include the Koala Hospital & Koala Sanctuary Australia
Join us on this remarkable journey along the East Coast of Australia, where every day brings a new adventure and memories waiting to be made.
Boutique Tours
Sydney to Cairns Best of Australia – 17 Day Boutique Comfort Tour
Sydney to Cairns – 14 Day Boutique Tour
Flashpacker Adventure Tours
Best Beaches, Rainforest and Islands – 13 Day Adventure Tour
Best of The Coast – Sydney to Cairns 16 Day Adventure Tour
We look forward to welcoming you on one of our Aus-ventures soon!
