As the koala breeding season approaches across the Northern Rivers, Friends of the Koala is urging the community to unite in protecting our region’s koalas.

With increased koala movement expected in the coming months, now is the time for action, awareness, and collaboration.

Each year during breeding season, koalas travel greater distances in search of mates and new territory, often crossing busy roads. Tragically, in 2024 alone, more than 67 koalas lost their lives on Northern Rivers roads.

“Koalas are especially active during breeding season and many are forced to crossroads to reach vital habitat,” said Dr Kate Thomas, Superintendent Vet at Friends of the Koala.

“Sadly, around 80 per cent of koalas hit by vehicles do not survive, even with emergency care.”

Recognising the scale of the threat, the Northern Rivers Regional Partnership, which includes Friends of the Koala and local councils with support from other key organisations, is leading a coordinated regional effort to reduce vehicle strikes and protect koalas during this critical breeding season.

As part of this joint effort, Variable Message Sign (VMS) boards are being deployed across koala hotspots, alerting drivers to slow down and stay alert. A coordinated social media campaign, led by Friends of the Koala and councils, will reinforce this message online, reminding the public that every driver’s actions can help save lives.

“This is about all of us stepping up together, governments, organisations, and everyday people,” said Angie Brace, Regional Koala Officer. “By working in partnership, we can increase awareness, target key areas, and make a real difference for koalas on our roads.”

FoK is asking the public to be especially cautious when driving at dawn and dusk, when koalas are most active. If you see a koala on or near a road, please call the 24/7 Koala Rescue Hotline on (02) 6622 1233 immediately.

Additional ways the community can help include:

• Driving slowly through koala zones and in known koala habitat

• Keeping dogs contained at night

• Reporting koala sightings near roads and calling the rescue hotline for road incidents

• Sharing safety messages with friends, neighbours, and online

"Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a safer environment for koalas."