A Fresh Start for SEQ Koalas - Koala engagement session (Ipswich)

Join us for a 1.5-hour, in-person koala engagement session to help shape the future of koala conservation in South East Queensland.

We’re inviting Queenslanders to have their say on the development of a new South East Queensland (SEQ) Koala Conservation Strategy.

The discussion paper A fresh start for SEQ koalas: Developing a new South East Queensland Koala Conservation Strategy 2026-2036 outlines four key focus areas for public consultation:

• Protecting and restoring habitat
• Reducing threats
• Working together
• Enhancing monitoring, reporting and mapping.

We are also seeking your feedback on how the current koala habitat regulations can be improved.

As part of our commitment to meaningful consultation, the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) is hosting a series of koala engagement sessions to gather feedback on the discussion paper and facilitate discussions on the future of koala conservation in SEQ. 3-hour engagement sessions will be held in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Toowoomba. 1.5-hour engagement sessions will also be held across SEQ in addition to an online engagement session.

This 1.5-hour engagement session will include:

• An overview of the discussion paper; and

• A brief Q&A panel discussion with representatives of the project team.

This session is suitable for community members who have a general interest in koalas and their conservation, or those who wish to find out more about the discussion paper.

Please note: Registration is essential to secure your place at this session. Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to register early to avoid disappointment.

Event Details

Please see the event details below:

• Date: Wednesday 18 February 2026
• Time: 9:30am-11:00am
• Location: Ipswich Civic Centre (1 Nicholas St) Event Space 2, Limestone & Nicholas Streets, Ipswich QLD 4305
• Getting there: Limited on-site parking and metered parking on surrounding streets. Three hours free parking available at Nicholas St Precinct Parking, approximately 5 minute walk (700m) from venue.
• Registration: Please arrive at 9:15am to register your attendance.

For information about other in-person engagement events, please visit the discussion paper website.

Online Engagement Session

A one-hour, online-only koala engagement session will be available for those who cannot attend an in-person event. Registration is free, but essential at the below link:

• Online – Monday 16 February 2026, 6:00pm-7:00pm, online only – Ticket link (Eventbrite)

Have Your Say

Please click here to view the discussion paper and complete the online survey or make a written submission. Consultation closes 5pm, 15 March 2026.

Your feedback will help inform the development of the new strategy, which is expected to be released in late 2026, once consultation feedback has been received and considered. It will also shape proposed regulatory amendments to the koala habitat regulation framework.

If you have any questions or require any further information, please contact the project team at SEQKoalaStrategy@detsi.qld.gov.au.