NSW Creates 176,000ha Koala Park Halts Logging, Threatens 300 Timber Jobs

The New South Wales government has established the Great Koala National Park, protecting 176,000 hectares of forest to create one of the state's largest parks and safeguard over 12,000 koalas along with numerous other threatened species. This move includes an immediate moratorium on logging within the park boundaries, affecting six timber mills and about 300 jobs, with the government pledging financial support and services to impacted workers and businesses. While environmentalists have welcomed the decision as historic and crucial for preventing koala extinction, the timber industry and regional representatives have sharply criticized it, warning of severe economic consequences for local communities already facing a cost-of-living crisis. Critics argue the decision disregards scientific input and rural livelihoods, potentially increasing pressure on vulnerable overseas forests due to reduced native timber availability. The government has emphasized balancing conservation goals with support for affected industries, highlighting investments in tourism and small business opportunities in the region. Despite opposition, the park aims to reverse the decline of koalas and other wildlife, underscoring the NSW Labor government's commitment to environmental preservation and community assistance.