Victorian koala population found to be half of previous estimates and in poor health

The Victorian government has been criticised for withholding a comprehensive review of the state’s koala population for more than a year, a report that was completed in June 2025 but remained unpublished until now. The assessment, conducted by the Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research in partnership with scientists from several major universities, concluded that the health of koalas across Victoria is “chronically poor,” citing widespread disease, habitat loss and low reproductive success as key drivers of the decline.

Officials have not provided a specific timeline for the report’s release, prompting calls from environmental groups and wildlife experts for immediate action based on the findings. The delayed publication has raised concerns about transparency and the government’s commitment to addressing the species’ deteriorating condition, as the data are expected to inform future conservation strategies and funding allocations.