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

Join us for a 3-hour, in-person koala engagement workshop 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 3-hour engagement session will include:

• An overview of the discussion paper;
• Participation in workshop activities; and
• A brief Q&A panel discussion with representatives of the project team.

This session is suitable for community members who wish to contribute to detailed engagement activities and have experience or interest in habitat protection, threat mitigation, monitoring and mapping, or the koala habitat regulation framework. Morning tea will be provided.

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: Tuesday 24 February 2026
• Time: 10:00am-1:00pm
• Location: Karl Langer Rooms, Burke & Wills Hotel Toowoomba – 554 Ruthven St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350
• Getting there: The Burke & Wills Hotel is a short walk from Grand Central Shopping Centre which is serviced by various bus routes. Metered parking is available on Ruthven Street and there are several paid carparks within a short distance of the hotel.
• Registration: Please arrive at 9:30am 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.