Victoria’s koalas in chronically poor health and population is half what was previously estimated

A major report assessing the health of Victoria’s koala population—conducted by leading scientists and the state’s science agency—was completed over a year ago but remained unpublished by the government, according to an exclusive investigation. The findings reportedly revealed the animals were suffering from chronic health issues, raising concerns over delayed action to address their declining condition. With the study finalized in mid-2025, questions now arise over why the government withheld the results for so long. The revelation underscores growing scrutiny of wildlife conservation efforts in the state.

Exclusive: State government delayed releasing major report into the health of the koala population for more than 12 monthsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe Victorian government sat on a report for more than 12 months that found the state’s koala population was in chronically poor health.The review of the state’s koala populations, led by state science agency the Arthur Rylah Institute in conjunction with scientists from major universities, was completed for the Victorian government in June 2025. Continue reading...