Member for Currumbin, Jann Stuckey MP, is encouraging landowners in the Currumbin electorate to approach the Government if they are interested in selling properties that could become protected koala habitat.

“Conservation of koalas is extremely important to the Newman Government and this initiative shows how serious we are about fulfilling our election commitment to protect our koalas” Ms Stuckey said.

“Koala habitat will be expanded in areas where their territory is under significant pressure, with an allocation of $22.5 million to be spent over the next three years in acquiring land.

“Currumbin residents clearly understand the need to protect our furry friends more than most regions as we are home to the iconic Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Hospital.

“In three years the number of koalas treated annually at the CWS Hospital has risen from about 20 to 182 in the past year which indicates a real problem in this region.

“Environment Minister Andrew Powell should be congratulated for his proactive approach to koala protection in Queensland.

“Expressions of interest will be competitively assessed against a range of criteria with habitat being a major focus.

“Where possible the land will also be available for recreational use, giving the community a rare chance to see koalas in their natural habitats.

“Programs such as this that increase the protection of koala habitat are vital in the long-term survival of our lovable marsupials.

“I urge residents in the Currumbin electorate to seriously consider this opportunity and their chance to be part of real and positive action to protect koalas in South East Queensland.

Expressions of interest opened on 14 August and will close 31 October.