Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 and ...

Visit us online at www.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan 2006and Management Program 2006 - 2016

Queensland once had millions of koalas. Butscientists estimate that up to 90 percent haveperished since European settlement.This Koala Plan will ensure that in Queensland,koalas are for keeps.Last century koalas were hunted for their skins. Thebiggest threat now is loss of habitat and thefragmentation of remaining bushland.As we know, South East Queensland is the fastestgrowing region in Australia. To manage that we needthe most innovative legislation, land managementand regional planning.That’s why the Beattie Government has bannedbroad-scale tree clearing, constrained urbandevelopment into only 20% of South EastQueensland, and has begun a 25 year project ofprogressively transferring 800,000 hectares ofnative forest from logging into National Park.Yet because many koalas live in and around alreadydeveloped areas we need to do more.This landmark Koala Plan will ensure koalas arefurther protected.We are creating Koala Conservation andSustainability Areas where new private developmentmust not impact on koalas and new essentialcommunity infrastructure will only occur with offsets.That will mean that every hectare of koala habitatcleared for essential community infrastructure mustbe offset by providing habitat or other benefits forkoalas.We are also creating Urban Koala Areas where KoalaSensitive Design will be required or encouraged.The Plan also improves how we manage and protectkoalas addressing other issues such as research,display in zoos, public education and therehabilitation of sick, injured and orphaned animals.By taking these positive steps koalas will survive foranother century and beyond.Thank you to all those who made submissions andthe koala and industry groups who helped developthis plan.This is about protecting koalas and at the same timeallowing smart, koala friendly development. Byworking with and around development, and with thecommunity, we can not only ensure that koalassurvive but thrive.Yours SincerelyDesley BoyleMinister for Environment, Local Government,Planning and Women

ISBN 0-646-46273-3Title: Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 and Management Program 2006-2016Publisher: Queensland Government - Environmental Protection AgencyRe528_August 2006

1 Introduction........................................................................................................32 Koala biology and ecology..................................................................................62.1 Indigenous overview...................................................................................62.2 Historical overview.....................................................................................62.3 Taxonomy...................................................................................................62.4 Distribution................................................................................................62.5 Population size and dynamics....................................................................62.6 Conservation status....................................................................................72.7 Habitat requirements..................................................................................72.8 Diet............................................................................................................72.9 Reproduction..............................................................................................82.10 Behaviour...................................................................................................82.11 Genetics.....................................................................................................83 Framework ..........................................................................................................93.1 Nature Conservation Act 1992...................................................................103.2 South-east Queensland Regional Plan 2005–2026...................................103.3 Application of the Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006and Management Program 2006–2016.................................................... 114 Management approaches.................................................................................. 174.1 Development and land use....................................................................... 174.2 Habitat protection and vegetation clearing............................................... 194.3 State-controlled community infrastructure................................................ 214.4 Vehicle related koala mortality................................................................. 214.5 Domestic dog related koala-mortality.......................................................234.6 Translocation............................................................................................244.7 Koala rehabilitation..................................................................................244.8 Display of koalas......................................................................................254.9 Research and monitoring..........................................................................264.10 Education and community awareness.......................................................265 Koala conservation criteria for development assessment..................................296 Koala policies...................................................................................................56Policy 1: Koala sensitive development............................................................56Policy 2: Offsets for net benefit to koalas and koala habitat............................64Policy 3: Determining overriding need in the public interest............................ 71Policy 4: Koala survey methodology for site assessment.................................72Policy 5: Requirements for the translocation and release of koalas.................74Policy 6: Vegetation clearing practices............................................................76Policy 7: Koala habitat assessment and mapping...........................................78Policy 8: Drafting and amending planning schemes........................................87Policy 9: Requirements for private koala hospitals..........................................92Policy 10: SEQ Regional Plan investigation areas..............................................93Policy 11: Rehabilitation of land to provide koala habitat.................................94Policy 12 Local road placement, design and upgrade..................................... 967 Glossary ....................................................................................................... 988 Bibliography / references................................................................................1019 Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006...................................... 104Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6

TablesTable 1 Wildlife districts and local government authority boundaries.................... 11Table 2 Koala Habitat Areas.................................................................................. 15Table 3 Development to which the criteria apply................................................... 31Table 4 Development reference.............................................................................32Table 5 Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaGeneral uncommitted development..........................................................33Table 6 Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaGeneral committed development..............................................................34Table 7 Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaUncommitted extractive industry development in a keyresource area...........................................................................................35Table 8 Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaUncommitted extractive industry development in a non-keyresource area...........................................................................................36Table 9 Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaCommitted extractive industry development.............................................37Table 10 Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaUncommitted community infrastructure development...............................38Table 11 Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaCommitted community infrastructure development...................................39Table 12 Urban Koala AreaAll development.......................................................................................40Table 13 Koala habitat assessment matrixExample table only...................................................................................82Table 14 Koala Habitat Areas..................................................................................84Table 15 Method of identifying Koala Habitat Areas and Koala Living AreasExample table only...................................................................................85Table 16 Recommended planning scheme approach............................................. 88MapsMap 1 The State map – koala districts................................................................. 12Map 2 Summary of Koala Habitat Areas............................................................... 14Map 3 Education and community awareness.......................................................28Annex 1 The State map – Koala Habitat AreasKoala Habitat Areas Brisbane City (East)...................................................42Koala Habitat Areas Caboolture Shire.......................................................43Koala Habitat Areas Gold Coast City..........................................................44Koala Habitat Areas Logan City.................................................................45Koala Habitat Areas Maroochy Shire.........................................................46Koala Habitat Areas Noosa Shire..............................................................47Koala Habitat Areas Redcliffe City.............................................................48Koala Habitat Areas Redland Shire............................................................49Koala Habitat Areas Caloundra City...........................................................50Koala Habitat Areas Ipswich City............................................................... 51Koala Habitat Areas Pine Rivers Shire.......................................................52Koala Habitat Areas Brisbane City (West)..................................................53

Koalas are one of the most recognisedanimals in Australia. As the state’sfaunal emblem and icon species, theyhold a special place in the hearts ofQueenslanders. Consequently, koalaconservation and welfare is held inhigh public regard.Koalas are also a popular species withinternational visitors, with 75 percentof overseas tourists stating that theyhoped to see a koala during a visit toAustralia (Hundloe and Hamilton 1997).It has been estimated that koala-basedindustry provided tourism revenue of$1.1 billion in 1996 and 9000 jobs(Hundloe and Hamilton 1997).Queensland is fortunate to have one ofthe largest natural populations ofkoalas in the wild with many koalasoccurring in urban areas in thesoutheast. However, although koalasare still considered common in manyparts of the state, their populations aredeclining. Research has indicated thatthe koala has suffered a 50–90 percentreduction in its range since Europeansettlement. Indeed, in 2004, koalas inthe South East Queensland Bioregionwere classified as ‘vulnerable’ toextinction after scientific dataindicated a significant decline in theirpopulation and a high level of threatfrom changing land uses.In particular, koalas are suffering fromthe impacts of urban development andhabitat clearing. The greatest threats totheir survival are the destruction andfragmentation of their habitat, carstrikes, dog attacks and disease. Withpopulation growth — some 55,000 ayear over the past two decades —poised to continue into the foreseeablefuture, the need for an integratedlandscape strategy to maintain vitalkoala habitat is vital, as is the need toprovide for more compatibledevelopment where it does proceed.The Queensland Government’sstrongest tool for the protection ofkoalas is this document, the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Management Program2006–2016. This plan has been basedon an extensive program of researchconducted by the EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA) and otherinstitutions and is designed to ensurethe conservation of koala populationsin Queensland. It containsmanagement strategies that aresupported by legislation and are theculmination of extensive consultationwith koala conservation interests,developers, local governments andState Government agencies. Theprotection of koalas and koala habitatwill require significant co-operationand involvement from localgovernments, industry, organisations,community groups and individuals,each playing their part in implementingthe recommendations of the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Management Program2006–2016.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6

PreparationThe Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016(the Koala Plan) has been prepared inaccordance with section 112 of theNature Conservation Act 1992.The Nature Conservation Act sets outthe required steps that the Minister forEnvironment must follow in preparingand making a conservation plan fornative wildlife. The key steps include:• giving public notice of the proposalto prepare a draft conservation planand inviting public submissions;• preparing a Draft Plan;• making the Draft Plan available forpublic consultation and invitingfurther submissions;• considering all properly madesubmissions on the Draft Plan; and• approving a final plan.To comply with these requirements,this final Koala Plan has been madefollowing:• an announcement by the thenMinister for Environment, theHonorable Dean Wells and thePremier of Queensland, theHonorable Peter Beattie regardingthe preparation of a draftconservation plan for koalas andinviting submissions inMarch 2003;• the release of the draft NatureConservation (Koala) ConservationPlan and Management Program2005–2015 in January 2005 and aninvitation for further submissions.Public meetings regarding the draftKoala Plan were also held inkey areas;• reviewing 507 formal submissions.Each submission was assessed andsummarised, and the key issuescollated in a report forconsideration by the Minister forEnvironment; and• preparation of a final Koala Plan,the Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016.PurposeThe Koala Plan is made up of twoparts, being:• the Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 (the KoalaConservation Plan), which issubordinate legislation made underthe Nature Conservation Act; and• the Nature Conservation (Koala)Management Program 2006–2016(the Koala Management Program),a policy document outlining thelegislative and policy context forthe conservation of koalas inQueensland.The main purposes of the KoalaConservation Plan are to:• promote the continued existence ofviable koala populations inthe wild;• prevent the decline of koalahabitats, including by providing forthe rehabilitation of cleared orotherwise disturbed koalahabitats; and• promote future land use anddevelopment that is compatiblewith the survival of koalapopulations in the wild.The main purpose of the KoalaManagement Program is tocomplement the Koala ConservationPlan, by providing policy directionand management approaches toaddress key threatening processesto koalas.Combined, they form a plan outlining astatutory and policy framework for thepurpose of conserving koalas in thewild in Queensland.The key components of the Koala Planare outlined in Figure 1.

Figure 1IntroductionKoala biology and ecologyThis section provides background information on koalas, Phascolarctos cinereus adustus, in Queensland, its habits andhabitat requirements.FrameworkThis section outlines the statutory and policy framework for the management and conservation of koalas, including therole of the South East Queensland Regional Plan.Management approachesThis section details the threatening processes faced by koalas in Queensland and the approaches and policies that willbe used to address these.Koala conservation criteria for development assessmentThis section contains the criteria against which certain assessable development under the Integrated Planning Act 1997 isto be considered as directed by the South East Queensland Regional Plan 2006–2026. The koala conservation criteriareplace the Interim Guideline: Koalas and Development.Koala policiesSpecific policies relevant to the management approaches and referred to within koala conservation criteria are containedin this section to provide guidance for interpretation and additional information for implementing the Koala Plan.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006This is the subordinate legislation component of the Koala Plan made under the Nature Conservation Act. The subordinatelegislation directs designation of koala districts and associated objectives; prescribes outcomes for Koala Habitat Areasand criteria against which development in these areas must be assessed; prescribes sequential clearing and koalaspotting requirements; and includes additional wildlife permit restrictions for koalas.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6

Koala biology and ecology2.1 Indigenous overviewTo Aboriginal people from eastern andsouthern Australia, the koala is valuedas an important cultural symboldepicted in a number of creationstories and through its use as a totem.The word ‘koala’ is derived from thename Koala (meaning ‘no drink’) givento it by Aboriginal people in the easternNew South Wales area. The koala wasa food source for Aboriginal peoplethough not favoured above other foodsources. Culturally-driven sustainablehunting practices meant that the koalapopulation survived thousands ofyears of use by Aboriginal people.2.2 Historical overviewThe first historical record of koalas inAustralia was in 1798, 10 years afterEuropean settlement. Records showthere were relatively low densities inthe Brisbane area and south-westQueensland in 1840 (Lee and Martin1988; Martin and Handasyde 1999).Koalas were hunted for their fur duringthe late 1800s, with millions of skinsexported during a regulated harvest(Phillips 1990). The animals weredeclared protected in Queensland in1906, although regulated harvestscontinued until 1927. It is possible togain some indication of koala numbersfrom these harvest figures. Forinstance, a six-month season in 1919yielded about one million skins andthe last open season declared in 1927yielded more than 500,000 skins inone month (Lee and Martin 1988;Phillips 1990). There were six of theseopen seasons between 1907 and 1927(Hrdina and Gordon 2004).Koalas were scarce when the fur tradeceased. There is some evidence tosuggest that numbers continued todecline during the mid-1900s, withanimals not seen in any significantnumbers for another 30 to 40 years(Howells 2000, Lee and Martin 1988).2.3 TaxonomyThree koala subspecies are currentlyrecognised in Australia. Queenslandkoalas are generally considered tobelong to the subspeciesPhascolarctos cinereus adustus,described from specimens from nearMundubbera in southern Queensland(Thomas 1923).The koala is the sole member of themarsupial family Phascolarctidae andits closest living relatives are thewombats.2.4 DistributionKoala populations are scatteredthroughout Queensland. The greatestconcentration is in south-eastQueensland. Lower densities occurthroughout much of the central andeastern parts of Queensland (Gordonand McGreevy 1978; Melzer and Lamb1994; Patterson 1996).Koala distribution is widespread butpatchy in forest and woodlandvegetation. Their broad distributionhas not contracted greatly sinceEuropean settlement. For example,koala populations are still found on thewestern and northern margins of theirrange in semi-arid country and also inthe heavily developed south-eastcorner of the state (Patterson 1996).They also continue to live in many ruralareas where their habitat has beenhighly fragmented due to clearing(Gordon 1989; Gordon et al. 1990a;White 1999).The local distribution of koalas inQueensland at the time of Europeansettlement is not known in detail.However, Queensland had beensubject to extensive tree clearing,which must have included significantareas of koala habitat. Therefore, it isreasonably certain that koalapopulations have undergone a majorcontraction in local distribution,including local extinctions and localdeclines in abundance (Phillips 1990).2.5 Population sizeand dynamicsIt is estimated that there are between100,000 and 300,000 koalas inQueensland. In 2000 it was estimatedthat there were 63,000 (±18,000) in theMulga Lands Bioregion, which is thesemi-arid country on the western limitof their range (Sullivan 2000). Thereare a maximum of 6000 koalas in the

Koala Coast, an area including RedlandShire and parts of Brisbane City andLogan City (Dique et al. 2004), and4500 in the Pine Rivers Shire (Dique etal. 2003a), representing two areas ofsignificant habitat in south-eastQueensland. The Koala Coast and PineRivers Shire comprise about one fifth ofthe animal’s distribution inQueensland.The local density of koala populationsin Queensland ranges from0.005koalas/ha (or 1 koala/200ha)(Melzer and Lamb 1994) to 2.5 koalas/ha (Gordon et al. 1990a). Higherdensities have been recorded in otherstates and anecdotal evidenceindicates that Queensland’s koaladensity has been much greater in thepast. Typical densities in forestedhabitat in south-east Queensland(where koalas are often thought to becommon) may be about 0.2–0.5koalas/ha, with densities reachingmore than 2 koalas/ha at some sites(White and Kunst 1990; Hasegawa1995; Dique et al. 2003b).Queensland’s koala population hasbeen variable over time, reaching highdensities before declining or‘crashing’. The decline phase is partlya correction of the precedingexpansion and does not necessarilyaffect the survival of the populationoverall (Gordon et al. 1988). However,more recent emerging threats affect thenormal fluctuations in populationdensities, making recovery moredifficult. A number of important factorsnow affect koala population size inQueensland. These are habitatfragmentation and loss, chlamydialdisease, climate change, car strikes,dog attacks, fire and drought.Understanding the extent of thedecline of koalas since Europeansettlement is complicated by a periodof population growth following huntingin the southern and central parts of itsQueensland distribution from the late1800s to the early 1900s (Gordon andHrdina 2005). The population appearsto have grown to a large size, perhapslarger than the pre-settlement sizewhen Indigenous hunting maintainednumbers, and then contracted severelybetween the 1920s and 1940s. Theextent of decline since the period ofhigh population growth gives amisleading impression of the overallchange in status of koalas sincesettlement. However, it is likely thatcurrent koala population size issignificantly smaller than the presettlementpopulation due to thecombined effects of the koala fur tradeand a large reduction in suitablehabitat resulting from the expansion ofthe Queensland agricultural industry.2.6 Conservation statusThe koala is classified as ‘vulnerable’in the South East QueenslandBioregion under the NatureConservation Act 1992. Although notabundant, it is classified as of ‘leastconcern’ elsewhere in Queensland.2.7 Habitat requirementsKoalas are found in communities ofeucalypts and some related species.While koalas choose their habitatbased on the suitability of food trees,the reasons for choosing these treesare not well understood.There are generally more koalas inforests and woodlands occurring onmore fertile soils. In more arid regions,water regime appears to be important,as koalas are often more abundantalong watercourses and on adjacentfloodplains (Gordon et al. 1988; Melzer1995; Munks et al. 1996).Koalas generally attain differentdensities in different vegetationcommunities according to suitability ofthe habitat. Plant communities thatsupport higher densities are regardedas preferred habitat in an area.Koalas successfully use highlyfragmented habitats that have onlysmall remnants of the originalvegetation (Gordon 1989; Gordon et al.1990a; White 1999). They also useyoung forest and highly modifiedvegetation such as grazed, disturbedor thinned forest and regrowth areas,moving significant distances acrossthe ground between preferred trees.Research has also found they preferlarger trees (Sharpe 1984, Hindell andLee 1987, White 1999).2.8 DietThe koala is a specialised leaf-eater,with food restricted mainly to speciesof Eucalyptus and some related generaincluding Corymbia, Angophora andLophostemon. However, koalas alsofeed on a number of other species,including species from the generaMelaleuca and Leptospermum.Diet is thought to be a majordeterminant of habitat selection.Attempts to identify koala food treeson the basis of leaf chemistry orenvironmental characteristics such assoil fertility have failed to provide a fullexplanation of koala food treepreference. Recent research has shownthat certain eucalypt leaf compounds,formylated phloroglucinol compounds(FPCs), adversely affect mammals(Lawler et al. 1998; Moore and Foley2000). Some possums that feed oneucalypts select trees with low levels ofFPCs, and it is likely that this also has amajor influence on koala food selection(Martin and Handasyde 1999).Koalas usually show a preference fora small number of food trees in eachlocality, but may also feed on otherspecies that are present. The latter areoften referred to as secondary foodNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6

species. Food tree preference oftenvaries regionally and between differentvegetation communities and a speciesthat is preferred in one region orcommunity may sometimes be avoidedin another region or community. Koalasmay also show a preference forindividual trees within a species(Martin and Handasyde 1999).2.9 ReproductionHealthy females breed from abouttwo years of age and give birth eachyear. Females in Queensland can givebirth between about August and May,but most births occur in Decemberand January (de Villiers et al. in press).Young begin to emerge from thepouch at about six months of ageand are weaned at about 12 monthsof age. Koalas are dependent for along period of time compared to mostother marsupials.Failure to breed for two or moresuccessive years is usually a sign ofinfertility brought on by a chlamydialinfection of the reproductive tract. Highlevels of female infertility are presentin many koala populations, with levelsof more than 50 percent being recorded(Gordon et al. 1990a). This results indepression of the reproductive rateand may lead to reduced populationgrowth or population decline.2.10 BehaviourKoalas live for about 15 years in thewild. They are solitary and show fidelityto a home range (Mitchell 1990;Gordon et al. 1990b; Martin andHandasyde 1999). They tend not to beterritorial, with male and female homeranges overlapping. Social interactionsbetween adult individuals tend to bemore frequent in the breeding seasonand are often aggressive(Mitchell 1990).Adult females and their young sharea close bond (Martin and Handasyde1999) until the young are weaned.Recently weaned young often occupyan overlapping home range with theirmothers (Ramsay 1999) until they aretwo years old. From about two to fouryears of age, a large proportion of maleand female koalas disperse from theirbirth areas. This usually correspondswith the breeding season (Dique et al.2003b). The movement of adult anddispersing individuals in the breedingseason increases the risk of car strikesand dog attacks (Dique et al. 2003b).2.11 GeneticsReduction in genetic variation hasbeen identified as a potentialmanagement issue in koalapopulations (Sherwin et al. 2000).Historical population crashes,translocation and fragmentation arethought to have caused a reduction ingenetic variation within and amongpopulations in southern states.A reduction in genetic variation mayalso occur in highly fragmented areasin south-east Queensland (QPWSunpublished data) and may indicatea need for genetic monitoring of somehighly isolated populations. Althoughthere is low genetic variation in somepopulations in Australia, no naturalpopulation has been identifiedwith certainty as declining due tolow variation.

FrameworkThe statutory and policy framework for koala conservation in Queensland is linked to both the Nature Conservation Act 1992and the Integrated Planning Act 1997 through the South East Queensland Regional Plan 2005–2026. The components of theframework are outlined in figure 2.Figure 2Nature Conservation Act 1992 Integrated Planning Act 1997Nature Conservation (Koala) ManagementProgram 2006–2016• Outlines management approaches forconserving koalas• Contains koala conservation criteria forassessing development applications• Policies provide further guidance on planelements including: koala sensitive design;offsets for net benefits to koalas;methodology for mapping koala habitatareas; translocation; habitat rehabilitation;and private koala hospitals.Nature Conservation (Koala) ConservationPlan 2006• Subordinate legislation• Directs designation of koala districts andkoala habitat areas; sequential clearing andkoala spotting requirements; and wildlifepermit restrictions.South East Queensland Regional Plan• Establishes Koala Habitat Areas• Requires assessment of development in koalahabitat areas against the koala conservationcriteria• Provides for integration of koala conservationmeasures in planning schemesLocal governmentStructure plans &planning schemesother planning• Reflection of koala instrumentshabitat areas• Reflection koala• Integration of koalaconservationconservation criteriacriteriaIntegrated Planning Regulation 1998Development Assessment in koala habitat areas• EPA as concurrence agency in Koala ConservationAreas and Koala Sustainability Areas• Local government in all Koala Habitat AreasNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6

3.1 Nature ConservationAct 1992The Nature Conservation Act providesfor the conservation of nature andprescribes management principlesfor protected wildlife. Specificrequirements to recover or conservewildlife can be prescribed within aconservation plan.A conservation plan for koalas hasbeen prepared following its listing as avulnerable species within the SouthEast Queensland Bioregion in 2004.The Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 forms part of abroader policy framework directedtowards redressing the current declinein koala populations, particularly insouth-east Queensland. This broaderpolicy framework is outlined by thisdocument, the Nature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016.3.2 South East QueenslandRegional Plan2005–2026The South East Queensland RegionalPlan 2005–2026 (SEQ Regional Plan)sets out a blueprint for how futuredevelopment should beaccommodated in the South EastQueensland region (SEQ region) whilealso protecting the region’s naturalassets. It specifies desired outcomes,policies, and regional land usecategories and includes regulatoryprovisions to achieve particularoutcomes in relation to these elements.The SEQ Regional Plan hasincorporated regional policies for koalaconservation and by doing seeks tointegrate koala conservation withdevelopment and land use planning.The SEQ Regional Plan, in Map 5,identifies Koala Conservation Areasand Koala Sustainability Areas for theSEQ region.The Koala Plan provides furtherguidance on the interpretation of theSEQ Regional Plan’s koala conservationpolices.SEQ Regional Plan2.2 Koala ConservationPrincipleAssist the survival of koalas in SEQ by protecting identified koala habitat areas and adopting conservation measures toreduce conflict between urban development and koalasPolicies2.2.1 Define significant areas of koala habitat in South East Queensland under one of three koala habitat areas: KoalaConservation Area, Koala Sustainability Area and Urban Koala Area 1 .2.2.2 Assess development in koala habitat areas against the koala conservation criteria contained in the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 and Management Program 2006–2016 or, prior to the adoption ofthe Conservation Plan, the Interim Guideline: Koalas and Development.2.2.3 Ensure development in Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability Area is compatible with the conservationof koalas, except where there are development commitments and, under certain circumstances, in areas requiredfor extractive industry or community infrastructure.2.2.4 Ensure development in Urban Koala Area includes measures to assist koala survival, having regard to the planningintents and requirements set out in structure plans and planning schemes.2.2.5 Ensure local government considers koala conservation throughout their local government areas and encourage theidentification of koala habitat areas in planning schemes.1Refer to SEQ Regional Plan, Map 5 — Koala Management Areas10

SEQ Regional Plan InterimGuideline: Koalas and DevelopmentThe Interim Guideline: Koalas andDevelopment is superceded by thekoala conservation criteria containedin section 5 of the Koala ManagementProgram.3.3 Application of the NatureConservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006and ManagementProgram 2006–2016The Koala Conservation Planestablishes three koala districts (A, Band C) in order to group similarmanagement regimes. The boundariesof the districts have been determinedon the basis of the conservation statusof the species and the significance ofthreatening processes affecting thespecies. Koala districts are identifiedin Map 1.The objectives for each koala districtinclude the following:• to ensure measures are adopted forthe district to achieve the purposesof this plan;• to monitor koala populations in thedistrict and threats to their survival;• to monitor and review theeffectiveness of conservationmeasures for koalas and koalahabitats in the district;• to provide education andmanagement strategies to helpmanage threats to the survival ofkoala populations in the wild,including, for example, threatscaused by dog attacks or vehiclestrikes.The districts are aligned to localgovernment authority boundaries oflocal governments shown in Table 1,to ensure the physical boundaries areeasily identified.Table 1Wildlife districts and local government authority boundariesKoala District AVulnerable wildlifeHighest threatBeaudesert, Boonah, Brisbane,Caboolture, Caloundra, Esk,Gatton, Gold Coast, Ipswich,Kilcoy, Laidley, Logan,Maroochy, Noosa, Pine Rivers,Redcliffe, Redland,Toowoomba.Koala District BVulnerable wildlifeModerate to high threatBiggenden, Bundaberg, Burnett,Cherbourg, Cooloola, CrowsNest, Gayndah, Hervey Bay, Isis,Kilkivan, Kolan, Maryborough,Miriam Vale, Murgon, Nanango,Perry, Tiaro, Woocoo.Koala District CLeast concern wildlifeLowest threatAramac, Atherton, Balonne, Banana, Barcaldine,Barcoo, Bauhinia, Belyando, Bendemere, Blackall,Booringa, Bowen, Broadsound, Bungil, Burdekin,Cairns, Calliope, Cambooya, Cardwell, Charters Towers,Chinchilla, Clifton, Dalby, Dalrymple, Douglas,Duaringa, Eacham, Eidsvold, Emerald, Etheridge,Fitzroy, Flinders, Gladstone, Goondiwindi, Herberton,Hinchinbrook, Ilfracombe, Inglewood, Isisford, Jericho,Johnstone, Jondaryan, Kingaroy, Livingstone, Longreach,Mackay, Mareeba, Millmerran, Mirani, Monto, MountMorgan, Mundubbera, Murilla, Murweh, Nebo, Paroo,Peak Downs, Pittsworth, Quilpie, Rockhampton, Roma,Rosalie, Sarina, Stanthorpe, Tambo, Tara, Taroom,Thuringowa, Townsville, Waggamba, Wambo, Warroo,Warwick, Whitsunday, Woorabinda, Wondai, Yarrabah.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 611

Map 1The State map – koala districts12

Koala District ADistrict A comprises 18 localgovernment authorities in the southernportion of the South East QueenslandBioregion, where koalas are listed asvulnerable. District A also correspondsto the SEQ region under the SEQRegional Plan.In District A, koala population densitiesare the highest, however the threatsassociated with habitat destructionand human impacts are also thegreatest, resulting in a reduction inthe long-term viability of somekoala populations.Within this district, the State hasidentified known koala habitat andareas where koalas live. Koala HabitatAreas are statutory areas identified bythe SEQ Regional Plan under theIntegrated Planning Act, and arereferred to as:• Koala Conservation Areas;• Koala Sustainability Areas; or• Urban Koala Areas.These areas are shown on Map 2,Summary of Koala Habitat Areas 2 .A fourth category, Koala Living Area,has also been identified. This categorydoes not form part of the Koala HabitatArea due to its non-statutory intent.2For more detailed information at a cadastralscale, refer to the State Map of Koala HabitatAreas in section 5: Koala conservation criteriafor development assessment.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 613

Map 2Summary of Koala Habitat Areas14

The Koala Plan recognises KoalaConservation Areas and KoalaSustainability Areas as the most criticalto the continued existence of viablekoala populations in the wild. Thefollowing table (table 2) providesgeneral characteristics of both the KoalaHabitat Areas and Koala Living Area.Table 2Koala Habitat AreasKoala Conservation Area Koala Sustainability Area Urban Koala Area Koala Living Area• Statutory intent• Located within theRegional Landscape andRural Production Areaunder the SEQ RegionalPlan• Important koala habitat -critical source areas forthe survival and dispersalof koalas across thelandscape• Large areas of relativelyintact remnant orregrowth eucalyptdominatedforest andwoodlands• Area may include clearedareas and areas offragmented forest andwoodlands• Area generally reflectshigh connectivitybetween patches• Area contains high koalahabitat values and/orgenerally high koaladensities (relative to thelocal government area)• Habitat contains a mosaicof private lands, publiclands and park estatewith limited infrastructureor urban developmentStatutory, Habitat and Locational Characteristics• Statutory intent• Located within either theUrban Footprint or RuralLiving Area under the SEQRegional Plan• Important koala habitat— critical to the survivaland dispersal of koalasacross the landscape• Areas of relatively intactand/or fragmentedremnant and regrowtheucalypt-dominatedforest and woodlands• Area may include clearedareas• Area generally reflectsmedium/highconnectivity betweenpatches• Contains high koalahabitat values and/orgenerally high koaladensities (relative to thelocal government area)• Habitat contains a mosaicof private lands, publiclands and park estate.Increase levels ofinfrastructure and urbandevelopment• Habitat may contain openspace areas and existingrural residentialdevelopment• Statutory intent• Located within either theUrban Footprint or RuralLiving Area under the SEQRegional Plan• Area subject to arecognised urbanplanning intent withinlocal governmentplanning instruments• May contain patches offragmented remnant andregrowth eucalyptdominatedwoodland• May include clearedareas• Varied levels ofconnectivity• Contains areas with bothhigh and lower koalahabitat values and/orkoala densities (relativeto the localgovernment area)• Non-statutory intent• Located within either theRegional Landscape andRural Production; RuralLiving Area or UrbanFootprint under the SEQRegional Plan• Area may support smallbushland areas,vegetated creek lines,parks, scattered trees,residential areas withlandscaped gardens andcleared areas• Area is known to supportpockets of highlyfragmented koala habitatand/or lower densitykoala population• Area may be highlyurbanised with a highlevel of infrastructureprovision or be located ina highly modified rural orsemi rural environmentNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 615

Koala Habitat Areas and Koala LivingAreas have been identified using arange of data sources including:• existing studies both undertakenby the EPA and local government;• koala sightings and koala hospitalrecords;• expert panel knowledge anddata; and• koala habitat suitability modelling.Koala District BKoala District B comprises 18 localgovernment areas in the northernportion of South East QueenslandBioregion, where koalas are listedas vulnerable. The district supportskoala densities generally lower than0.2 koalas/ha and characteristicallycontains habitat in areas zoned forrural purposes.Koala District CKoala District C comprises theremaining 77 local governmentauthorities where koalas are found.Although there is evidence of declinein this district, koalas are classifiedas of least concern wildlife underthe Nature Conservation Act due toa generally lower perceived threatto their survival.16

Management approachesThe conservation of koalas inQueensland is dependent onidentifying and addressing the keythreatening processes. These are,habitat loss and fragmentation,vehicular traffic, dogs and disease (as aresult of anthropogenic factors). Koalapopulations are generally affected bymore than one threatening process.The Queensland Government willsafeguard the future of the koala usinga suite of statutory and non-statutorytools, ranging from regulatorymeasures to community educationprograms. The Koala ManagementProgram outlines managementapproaches that have been tailoredto suit various populations and areasof the state. The strongestmanagement requirements are insouth-east Queensland where thespecies is listed as vulnerable and thethreats are the greatest.4.1 Development andland usePolicy statements• Protect koalas and koala habitatthrough existing statutoryprocesses to manage developmentand land use.• Recognise existing developmentcommitments.• Reflect Koala Habitat Areas andthe koala conservation criteriafor development assessmentwithin local government planninginstruments.• Consider the objectives for eachkoala district and the overalloutcomes for Koala Habitat Areasin the planning and managementof koalas and koala habitat.• Encourage innovation andcollaboration to achieve planningsolutions in areas of koala habitat.CommentsThe clearing and fragmentation ofkoala habitat for urban developmenthas the single most significant impacton koala populations. Resultingimpacts from vehicles, dogs anddisease magnify the threat from urbandevelopment.The strongest management strategiesto address this threatening processare focussed on Koala District A wheresignificant koala populations remainand development pressure is high. Inthis area, the SEQ Regional Plan, whichwas released on 30 June 2005, hasbeen utilised to deliver specific koalaconservation measures.It is acknowledged that similarthreatening processes may exist inDistrict B and parts of District C,however, sufficient data on koalasand koala habitat and the impacts ofurban development on thesepopulations is not available tosubstantiate a similar managementstrategies at this point in time.Development in Koala HabitatAreas assessable under theIntegrated Planning ActThe SEQ Regional Plan requires certainnew development occurring in KoalaHabitat Areas and captured by theIntegrated Development AssessmentSystem under the Integrated PlanningAct, to be assessed against koalaconservation criteria contained in thisKoala Management Program. The koalaconservation criteria are based on theKoala Habitat Area, type of developmentactivity and whether the developmentis committed or uncommitted.A range of issues relevant to koalasand koala habitat are addressed by thekoala conservation criteria includingvegetation clearing, degradation ofhabitat, generation of additionalvehicle traffic and the permeability ofthe proposed development to koalas.The koala conservation criteriaallow for existing developmentcommitments (being development thatis consistent with either an existingdevelopment approval, the localgovernment planning scheme or SEQRegional Plan).Applications proposing uncommitteddevelopment within the important KoalaConservation and Koala SustainabilityAreas must meet more stringentguidelines.Continued over pageNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 617

Any application must demonstratethat the future use of the land iscompatible with the protection ofkoalas and koala habitat for it tosatisfy the koala conservation criteria.In defined circumstances,uncommitted extractive industry in KeyResource Areas or communityinfrastructure, made assessabledevelopment under the IntegratedPlanning Act or a local governmentplanning scheme, may be approvedwithin Koala Conservation or KoalaSustainability Areas despite their likelynegative impact on koalas. The koalaconservation criteria deal with thesedevelopments separately and requirethat the impacts of the development beoffset by providing a net benefit forkoalas. Development in these areaswill be assessed using Policy 2: Offsetsfor net benefit to koalas and koalahabitat to determine whether theapplication meets this requirement.The development must meet thisrequirement for it to be approved.Additionally, uncommitted communityinfrastructure will be required todemonstrate an overriding need in thepublic interest justifying its locationwithin these areas.Urban Koala Areas are recognised ashaving both koala habitat values andan urban purpose planning intent asdefined within local governmentplanning schemes. Consequently, thekoala conservation criteria requiresthat all development in these areasinclude measures to assist the koala’ssurvival, where these measures do notinhibit the ability of the developmentto effectively achieve its urbanpurpose. Such measures may include(but are not limited to) the retention ofhabitat linkages, koala habitat trees,landscaping with native vegetation,and koala-friendly fencing.An important focus for Urban KoalaAreas will be on the integration ofstrategic koala conservation outcomeswithin higher level planning documentssuch as local growth managementstrategies, structure plans andplanning schemes.The EPA will provide assistance to localgovernment in the interpretation of thekoala conservation criteria. This willinclude providing technical guidelinesthat address matters such as assessingthe impact of development on koalamovement and calculating netbenefits.EPA concurrence agency role inthe SEQ regionThe EPA has nominated to becomea concurrence agency under theIntegrated Planning Act for defineddevelopment in Koala Conservationand Koala Sustainability Areas. Thiswill enable the EPA to take an activerole in ensuring development inthese areas is compatible with theconservation of koalas and koalahabitat or where the developmentis committed development, ensuringthe impacts are mitigated to theextent practicable.The EPA will be a concurrence agencyfor applications for a material changeof use; reconfiguring a lot; oroperational work if it involves one ormore of the following triggers, ascontained in the Integrated PlanningRegulation 1998:• additional lots;• clearing of native vegetation;• new buildings or extension to newbuildings;• extraction of resources;• excavating or filling; or• generating additional vehicletraffic.The koala conservation criteria andpolicies contained within this KoalaManagement Program are relevant tothe EPA when assessing developmentapplications.Koala conservation within localgovernment planning schemesAll local governments in Koala DistrictsA, B and C are encouraged to considerkoala conservation in the making oftheir planning schemes and associatedplanning and developmentassessment mechanisms.In the SEQ region, local governmentplanning schemes are required to beconsistent with the outcomes of theSEQ Regional Plan. The SEQ RegionalPlan requires local government toconsider koala conservation throughouttheir local government areas. They arealso encouraged to identify koalahabitat in planning schemes.Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramSection 5Policy 1Policy 2Policy 3Policy 4Policy 6Policy 8Policy 10Policy 12Koala conservation criteriafor developmentassessmentKoala SensitiveDevelopmentOffsets for substantial netbenefit to koalas andkoala habitatDetermining overridingneed in the public interestKoala survey methodologyfor site assessmentVegetation clearingpracticesDrafting and amendingplanning schemesSEQ Regional PlanInvestigation AreasLocal road placement,design and upgrade18

4.2 Habitat protection andvegetation clearingPolicy statements• Ensure the survival of the koalathrough the identification,protection, management andrehabilitation of koala habitat.• Encourage local governments tomap koala habitat.• Use planning mechanisms andvegetation management strategiesto protect koala habitat.• Encourage government, industry,community and landholders toconsider a range of options for theprotection of koala habitat.• Encourage and supportphilanthropic activities and/ororganisations that may assist inproviding conservation outcomesfor koalas, including the protectionof habitat.CommentsHabitat loss has been identified as thegreatest threat to koala survival. Koalahabitat is lost through clearing forurban development, broad scaleclearing in rural and peri-urban areasand fragmentation by developmentcreating barriers to movement betweenretained patches of bushland.Bushland can also become degradedthrough poor management, fire, or pestand weed infestations.Habitat protection and vegetationretention is of critical importance tokoala conservation in Queensland.Some koala habitat is alreadyprotected through its inclusion withnational parks, State Forests and otherState land tenures. In addition, a rangeof measures is in place or are availableto government, industry and thecommunity to achieve habitatprotection and retention,complementing the approaches in theKoala Plan.Regulation of clearing underexisting legislationMost koala habitat occurs on land withprivate tenure (Patterson 1996;ANZECC 1998). The QueenslandGovernment has taken a significantstep to address habitat loss on privateland by phasing out broad scaleclearing of remnant vegetation underthe Vegetation Management Act 1999.This initiative will provide significantbenefits to koalas and other wildlife inremnant vegetation across the state.Certain development applications cancontinue to be made to clear nativevegetation under the VegetationManagement Act. However, clearing isgenerally prevented if the clearing is tooccur in an area of essential habitat.Essential habitat refers to habitat for aspecies of wildlife listed as vulnerable,rare, near threatened or endangeredunder the Nature Conservation Act.Essential habitat is delineated on amap prepared by the EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA) and certifiedfor use by the Department of NaturalResources, Mines and Water. Koalasightings data and modelling ofpotential habitat will be used toinclude koala habitat within the portionof the essential habitat map that is partof the South East QueenslandBioregion (where the koala is listed asvulnerable).To avoid duplication, the Departmentof Natural Resources, Mines and Waterwill not consider the essential habitatmap in relation to koalas whenassessing vegetation clearingapplications under the VegetationManagement Act if the clearing isproposed to occur within a KoalaHabitat Area. Other legislation, such asthe Water Act 2000, also regulates thedestruction of vegetation. Theprotection of vegetation withinwaterways under the Water Act is ofparticular significance for koalas askoalas tend to rest and forage in treessituated within riparian areas.Avoiding injuries to koalas whenclearing koala habitat treesVegetation clearing has the potential toresult in injury or death to koalas. Inresponse to this threat, the Koala Planrequires the clearing of koala habitattrees in Districts A and B to beundertaken in a sequential manner,allowing koalas present to move out ofthe site of their own accord inpreference to being moved. Further, theclearing of koala habitat trees in aKoala Habitat Area must be carried outin the presence of a koala spotter whohas the primary role of locating koalasin the trees.Mapping and protection ofkoala habitatIn the SEQ region, the StateGovernment has identified knownimportant koala habitat. Outsidethese known areas and in other partsof the state there is less informationon their usage of habitat andabundance. Koalas are however,known to be generally widespreadin their distribution.Local government, in collaboration withthe EPA, is encouraged to undertakefurther mapping to identify koalahabitat and provide additional habitatprotection particularly in the SEQregion and in areas of the State subjectto higher growth pressures wherekoalas and koala habitat are known tooccur. The identification of koalahabitat is particularly important inareas of non-remnant vegetation,which koalas readily use as habitat.This vegetation is not necessarilyprotected from clearing under theVegetation Management Act.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 619

Strategies for the protection of koalahabitat may include the linking ofkoala habitat to local governmentconservation initiatives (e.g. Land forWildlife, Voluntary ConservationAgreements, green levies), communityeducation and the incorporation ofprovisions into local governmentplanning schemes. These provisionsmay include koala habitat mapping/biodiversity overlays/codes andrelevant development assessmenttriggers, the assessment ofapplications to clear non-remnantvegetation and requirements for koalaand koala habitat surveys.Voluntary conservation ofkoala habitatLandholders can voluntarily protectsignificant habitat by having their landdeclared a nature refuge under theNature Conservation Act. This is acategory of protected area that providesfor the protection of threatenedecosystems, plants or animals, whileallowing the ecologically sustainableuse of a natural resource by thelandowner. As of May 2006, 205nature refuges protecting 464,365hawere registered with the EPA acrossthe state, with at least 10 protectingkoala habitat.The Koala Bushland CoordinatedConservation Area (CCA) located in theKoala Coast (parts of Brisbane andLogan Cities and Redland Shire), alsoprotects habitat. The CCA, a form ofprotected area estate under the NatureConservation Act, was a voluntary butformal agreement between State andlocal government landholders to coordinatethe management of 1170ha ofadjoining parcels of land and limitactivities to those that are compatiblewith the conservation of the koala.Some local governments have a rangeof nature conservation initiatives toprotect koala habitat, includingvoluntary conservation agreements.Rate deferral or reduction has beenused in some areas as an incentive toprotect and manage land ofconservation significance. These typesof programs result in the protection ofvaluable koala habitat and habitatlinkages, and are encouraged.Other land basedconservation initiativesThe Queensland Government hasestablished the Trust for Nature, aprogram aimed at protecting significantnatural areas in private ownershipthrough a range of mechanisms. Thesemechanisms include the purchase ofsignificant conservation valueproperties, the application ofconservation covenants on that land topreserve its natural values and onsellingof the covenanted land to fundthe purchase of further properties. Thisprogram can have important benefitsfor the protection of koala habitat inQueensland. Preserving open space insouth-east Queensland is a priority forthe Trust.A number of local governments haveintroduced green levies to purchaseconservation significant land and openspace. These programs provide anexcellent opportunity to securebushland with koala habitat values.RehabilitationRehabilitation or revegetation ofdegraded habitats is also important inorder to restore, enhance or maintainexisting koala habitat. Rehabilitation ofeasements, creek lines and parkland inurban and rural areas will providesignificant habitat and habitat links forkoalas. Local governments areencouraged to identify areas forrehabilitation or revegetation that canfunction as habitat or habitat linkagesin the future and facilitate thisrehabilitation or revegetation workbeing undertaken.FireFire is a direct threat to koalas and candeplete some plant species and favourothers that are highly flammable andcontribute to the fuel load. Very hotfires that extend into the canopy(crown fires) can kill koalas and otherarboreal animals and effective firemanagement strategies can helpreduce the chance of them occurring(Melzer et al. 2000).Pest plants and animalsNon-native plant species and weedspenetrate koala habitat areas from avariety of sources, including seedspread from other wildlife and thedumping of garden waste. Weeds candegrade koala habitat by changing thecomposition of species, limiting seedregeneration, increasing fuel loads andchoking or smothering trees.Feral animals that degrade habitats bychanging the structure of ecosystemscan impact on koalas. Wild dogs are aparticular threat to koalas movingbetween trees.The most important tool in the fightagainst pest plants and animals is theLand Protection (Pest and Stock RouteManagement) Act 2002. Thislegislation governs the actions ofeveryone with respect to the controland management of declared plantsand animals in the state. It provideslocal governments with the impetus toco-ordinate actions to control pestplants and animals across their localgovernment areas. Legal instrumentsare also available to enforce themanagement of high-priority weedsand pest animals.20

Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramPolicy 4Policy 6Policy 7Policy 8Policy 11Koala survey methodologyfor site assessmentVegetation clearingpracticesKoala habitat assessmentand mappingDrafting and amendingplanning schemesRehabilitation of land toprovide koala habitat4.3 State-controlledcommunity infrastructurePolicy statement• Ensure all State-controlledcommunity infrastructureaddresses the Koala Plan.CommentsThe provision of infrastructure is vitalto Queenslander’s ongoing quality oflife. South-east Queensland isexperiencing the fastest growth rate ofany area within Australia. It is expectedthat by 2026 the population of SoutheastQueensland will be approximately3.7 million people.Infrastructure includes road and railcorridors, development for water andenergy as well as social and communityinfrastructure. The State Governmentrecognises the vital importance oftimely infrastructure provision to theefficient and orderly growth in southeastQueensland. In April 2005, theState Government released the SouthEast Queensland Infrastructure Planand Program 2005–2026.Infrastructure, such as road corridors,has the potential to impact on koalasand koala habitat by reducing theamount of available habitat. It can alsofragment and/or otherwise degrade thehabitat that remains. Road corridorsresult in high levels of koala mortalitydue to vehicle strike, and createbarriers to movement.Applying the policies and requirementsof the Koala Plan will largely depend oncommunity infrastructuredevelopments either being assessabledevelopment under the IntegratedPlanning Act or local governmentplanning schemes, or subject to‘designation of land for communityinfrastructure’ under the IntegratedPlanning Act.It is the intent of the Koala Plan toensure all community infrastructureprovided by the State addresses koalaconservation, irrespective of whetherthe particular development isassessable, subject to communityinfrastructure designation, or exemptdevelopment under the IntegratedPlanning Act. This approach is areflection of the State’s commitment tothe protection of koalas and koalahabitat and intention to addressthreatening processes on koalas.Accordingly, the EPA proposes todevelop Memoranda of Understandingwith key State governmentinfrastructure providers to addressdevelopment in Koala Conservationand Koala Sustainability Areas withinthe SEQ region. The Memorandum ofAgreement will describe the role andresponsibilities of the key stakeholdersand the EPA, and the processesapplicable to development. It willaddress:• the provision of net benefit offsetsto koalas and koala habitat;• demonstrating overriding publicneed in the public interest justifyingthe development’s location withinthe Koala Conservation or KoalaSustainability Area; and• koala sensitive development.The Memorandum of Understandingwill apply to development identified inthe South East QueenslandInfrastructure Plan and Program orother such strategic infrastructuredocuments.Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramPolicy 1Policy 2Policy 3Policy 4Policy 6Policy 11Koala sensitivedevelopmentOffsets for substantial netbenefit to koalas andkoala habitatDetermining overridingneed in the public interestKoala survey methodologyfor site assessmentVegetation clearingpracticesRehabilitation of land toprovide koala habitat4.4 Vehicle relatedkoala mortalityPolicy statement• Investigate and monitor mitigationmeasures to reduce the level ofvehicle-related mortality.• Maintain koala support services tocollect, treat and document injuredkoalas.• Promote community awareness ofkoala vehicle related mortality.CommentsVehicle related koala mortality has themost significant impact on koalas afterhabitat clearing and fragmentation.Koalas living in developed areas haveNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 621

to cross streets and highways to getto pockets of remaining fragmentedhabitat. Their ability to do this isaffected by a number of factorsincluding traffic volume, traffic speed,road position and road design. It ispredominantly breeding-age animalsthat are killed by vehicles.While koala-exclusion fencing cankeep animals off the roads, it canalso interfere with migration anddispersal, which in turn affects geneticdiversity. These processes areimportant in maintaining the viabilityof some koala populations, particularlyin fragmented habitats. The use ofexclusion fencing to keep koalas fromsections of roads should only beconsidered if alternative means forkoala movements are provided.Integrated solutions consideringpopulation and habitat dynamics,improved road design, exclusiontechniques and reduced traffic speedwill be more effective than relyingon single strategies to addressroad deaths.The application of the koalaconservation criteria will result in newdevelopments being refused in KoalaConservation Areas or KoalaSustainability Areas if the developmentis likely to generate increased vehiculartraffic volumes at night-time. This willprevent the creation of new accident‘hotspots’ in these important koalahabitat areas.Development in Urban Koala Areasthat includes new roads is required toincorporate measures to address therisk to koalas from vehicle strike to theextent practicable. These measuresmay include:• the use of barriers and channelfencing that lead koalas todesignated crossing points such asunderpasses and overpasses;• improved lighting and vergemaintenance to make animals morevisible when crossing roads;• traffic calming to slow trafficdown; and• reduced speed limits.Local government controlled roads areexempt from assessment under theIntegrated Planning Act and aretherefore not subject to the koalaconservation criteria. However, aBest Practice approach is stronglyadvocated where new roads orupgrades to existing roads are plannedwithin koala habitat. Best Practice iscentred around an ‘avoid, minimiseand mitigate’ approach to impacts onkoalas and koala habitat.For existing roads with proven highkoala mortality, hazard reductionmeasures directed at addressingaccident ‘hotspots’ is stronglyencouraged. Where habitatfragmentation is putting koalas atgreater risk from being struck byvehicles, preference should be givento widening existing roads, rather thanfurther fragmenting habitat by theconstruction of new roads in areasof koala habitat.The Department of Main Roads isdeveloping a ‘Main Roads KoalaConservation Plan Policy’ to clarifyits position in relation to koalamanagement in the South EastQueensland Bioregion. The policy willoutline strategies to contribute towardsconservation outcomes for koalas.The Koala Plan will also use educationas a tool to address the risk to koalasfrom vehicle strike. Raising awarenessamong drivers of the presence ofkoalas and the importance of slowingvehicle speed may be more effective inmotivating drivers to reduce theirspeed when combined with the directregulation of speed, which on its ownhas been problematic in the past.A reduced vehicular speed also hasbenefits for human safety.Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramSection 4.3State-controlledcommunity infrastructureSection 4.10 Education andPolicy 12community awarenessLocal road placement,design and upgrade22

4.5 Domestic dog relatedkoala-mortalityPolicy statement• Increase community awareness ofdomestic dog related koalamortality.• Promote koala-sensitive dogownership.CommentsDomestic dogs have a significant andpreventable impact on koalapopulations, particularly in south-eastQueensland. Attacks from domesticdogs are the third most significantknown cause of death behind carstrikes and habitat clearing. Althoughthere would be some predation onkoalas by wild dogs, dog-relatedmortality is principally caused bydomestic dogs, generally in suburbanbackyards. A study (de Villiers et al. inpress [dogs]) demonstrated that:• Although they occur throughout theyear, more dogs attack during Julyto September (the months leadingup to koala breeding). There is aseasonal peak in dog attacks inSeptember, which particularlyaffects young males.• Some 96 percent of recordedattacks are by dogs larger than10kg in weight with few attacks bydogs weighing less than 7kg.• If two or more dogs are present at aproperty there is a higher incidenceof attack.• The frequency of dog attacks in asuburb strongly correlates with thedensity of dogs in the suburb.Attacks on sick animals are nomore frequent than for healthykoalas.The SEQ region (District A) has thehighest densities of healthy koalas inQueensland but also the highesthuman population and the highest riskfrom domestic dog attack. Measures toreduce impacts on koalas, particularlyin District A, are important elements inthe Koala Management Program’sapproach to improve the survival ofkoalas and their ability to disperseacross the landscape.It is recognised that addressing thethreat to koalas posed by domesticdogs is a difficult community issue tosolve and involves multiplestakeholders and managementstrategies.Community awarenessThe EPA maintains the position thatpeople have the right to own a dog,but that right does not extend to a doginjuring or killing other animalsincluding koalas. The EPA willcollaborate with local government,community organisations, dog ownersand developers, to establish aneducation program that results indog owners taking appropriate actionsto reduce the risk of their dogattacking koalas.Education will play a strong role inraising awareness among dog ownersof the impact of dog attacks on koalasand of their responsibilities underexisting legislation. Educationstrategies will focus on existingresidential areas where koalas live andinclude a number of key messages:• As almost all attacks occur at night,limiting the movement of dogsbetween dusk and dawn would bethe single most effective way ofensuring dogs and koalas do notcome into contact. This can beachieved by keeping dogs indoorsat night where they can be effectivewatchdogs and good companions.• Research indicates that householdscontaining large dogs have a higherrate of attacks on koalas. ‘Koalafriendly’dog breeds are breeds thatgenerally do not grow to more than7–10kg in size. Small but alert dogsare also effective for home security.• Koala exclusion fencing can beutilised to prevent koalas enteringyards where there are dogs. Koalaexclusion can be achieved byinstalling fencing with a design ormaterials that prevents koalas fromclimbing the fence or by cheaplyretrofitting existing fences toprevent koalas climbing the fence.Options for the effective control of adomestic dog in existing builtenvironments may include:• keeping the dog in a suitableenclosure (particularly at night) thatplaces a physical barrier betweenit and koalas (e.g. a pen, kennel,garage or house) or modifyingexisting boundary fences to excludekoalas (i.e. exclusion fencing); or• tethering the dog at night on a shortleash, with the provision ofappropriate shelter, food andwater, to limit the area of premiseswhere a dog could attack a koala.Options associated with the designand construction of new residentialestates within Koala Habitat Areasmay include:• creating dog free estates usingcovenants or community title toprohibit in perpetuity, the keepingof dogs, or limiting of the breed/size of dog allowed to be kept;• incorporating exclusion fencing onpart of a lot or premises to separatedogs and koalas.Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramSection 4.10 Education andPolicy 1community awarenessKoala sensitivedevelopmentNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 623

4.6 TranslocationPolicy statement• Restrict the translocation of koalasto exceptional circumstances understrict scientific guidelines.CommentsWhen there is conflict between thehabitat requirements of wildlife andhuman requirements for land use,there can be pressure to ‘move thewildlife’. Translocation, or therelocating of animals out of areas tobe developed and into other habitat,can be perceived as a viable option.Unfortunately, this wrongly assumesthat there is suitable habitatavailable, the translocated wildlifewill survive and the habitat has thecapacity to support additional wildlifeincluding koalas.In Australia, koalas have beentranslocated for a variety of reasonsincluding to reduce over-abundanceat the capture site, relocate rescuedand rehabilitated animals, restockareas, remove animals from areas tobe cleared, reintroduce koalas toperceived vacant habitat, andintroduce koalas to areas outsidetheir natural range.Translocation can have a significantimpact on the individuals beingtranslocated to a new area of habitatas well as on the other wildlifeoccupying that habitat. Many ofAustralia’s most intractableenvironmental problems have beencaused by unwise translocation ofanimals and plants from interstateand overseas. Nonetheless,translocation can be an effective toolin the recovery of threatened speciesas part of planned and sustainedresearch-based recovery programs.Handling a koala in order to translocatethe animal is regulated under theNature Conservation Act and requires apermit. The translocation of koalas willnot be approved in Queensland exceptunder a controlled scientific researchapproval aimed at expandingknowledge about wildlife translocation.Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramPolicy 5Policy 6Requirements for thetranslocation and releaseof koalasVegetation clearingpractices4.7 Koala rehabilitationPolicy statement• Facilitate a management system forthe rescue, rehabilitation andrelease of sick, injured andorphaned koalas.• Establish and maintainpartnerships with providers toensure wider access to koala care,including the establishment ofprivately operated koala carefacilities, where appropriate.• Involve wildlife rehabilitationgroups, volunteers and otherorganisations in the rehabilitationof rescued koalas.• Provide for the rescue, treatment,rehabilitation and release of sick,injured or orphaned koalas,including the development ofguidelines.• Return rehabilitated koalas withhigh chances of survival to the wild.• Rehabilitated koalas are releasedas close as possible to where theywere found.CommentsThe EPA, a number of zoos,philanthropic organisations,veterinarians and an extensive networkof highly committed and trainedvolunteers provide rescue,rehabilitation and release services forkoalas across Queensland. Throughthis action, many hundreds of koalashave been successfully returned to thewild that would otherwise not havesurvived, making it an importantcontribution to koala sustainability.The EPA operates a comprehensivekoala welfare, rescue andrehabilitation system through theMoggill Koala Hospital and volunteernetwork. A private koala hospital alsooperates at Beerwah, establishedunder an agreement between the EPAand Australia Zoo. This facility worksin concert with the Moggill facility,sharing information on treatmentsand injury, recovery and release data.A number of zoos in south-eastQueensland also treat injured koalasand maintain contact with wildliferehabilitation groups to care for sick,injured and orphaned koalas.There is potential for other koalahospital facilities to be developed inthe future. Such facilities will need tooperate under an agreement with theEPA, working under guidelines aimedat maximising the return of koalas tothe wild.Optimum husbandry standards arecritical for successful rehabilitation ofkoalas (Carrick et al. 1996). Facilitiesat koala hospitals and at individualcarer’s premises must operate undera Rehabilitation Permit issued underthe Nature Conservation Act, andcomply with established standards forthe rescue, rehabilitation and releaseof koalas.Due to the special husbandry needsof koalas, in particular sick, injuredand orphaned koalas, carers andrescue volunteers must meet stringentrequirements. To be a koala carer, aperson must be endorsed by the EPAor a rehabilitation group .24

The Queensland Wildlife RehabilitationCouncil (QWRC) has been establishedto assist with the development ofstandards and with generalmanagement of issues concerningvolunteer wildlife care providers.Their functions include:• developing of standards that areapplicable to the rehabilitation ofwildlife;• liaising directly with voluntarywildlife care providers andindividual permit holders to resolveissues pertaining to wildlifehandling and care and, for seriousbreaches, referring complaints toconservation officers forinvestigation;• developing accreditation standardsthat will form the basis forassessing applications forrehabilitation permits;• providing information and up-todateadvice to clients about wildlifecare and rehabilitation; and• managing wildlife welfare.ReleaseOnce fully treated, koalas are returnedto the area from which they originatedor to nearby habitat. To improve theirprospects for survival and limit theimpacts on resident koalas in areasof limited habitat value, koalas arereleased within one kilometre of thecapture site, but no greater than fivekilometres from the capture site. If theoriginal habitat has been cleared,koalas are returned to the nearestintact area of eucalypt forest orwoodland. To maximise the survival ofhealthy animals and reducecompetition for food and shelter onexisting populations in a constrainedhabitat environment, koalas thatcannot make a contribution to theongoing reproductive success of thespecies are not returned to the wild.Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramPolicy 5Policy 9Requirements for thetranslocation and releaseof koalas.Requirements for privatekoala hospitals.4.8 Display of koalasPolicy statement• Ensure koalas are only exportedfrom Queensland to overseaszoological institutions underagreement with the QueenslandGovernment.• Ensure no koalas are taken fromthe wild for display purposes.• Ensure artificial insemination isused as the primary method ofintroducing new genetic diversityto local and overseas zoos in lieuof talking animals from the wild.• Ensure koalas are available forinterchange between zoos tomaintain genetic viability.• Ensure the commercial utilisationof koalas provides benefits to theconservation of koalas in the wild.• Strive for continual improvementin the husbandry and health ofcaptive koalas, in partnership withQueensland Zoological parks.CommentsKoala colonies in zoos are popularvisitor attractions and make animportant contribution to the state,national and international tourismindustry. They can also play animportant role in educating visitorsabout the conservation and protectionof koalas and their habitat. It isessential, therefore, that displays aremaintained at high standards.Koalas have specialist animalhusbandry and veterinary needs.The Code of Practice of ARAZPAQ —Minimum standards for exhibitingwildlife in Queensland (Part A KoalasPhascolarctos cinereus) (2003),approved under the NatureConservation Act, sets minimumstandards and conditions for captivekoala management in Queensland. Allzoos in Queensland must comply withthe provisions of this code.The State Government does notsupport the export of koalas forcommercial gain and seeks to limit theexport of Queensland koalas, exceptunder agreement with the Australianand Queensland governments. Theseagreements will be part of movementpermit requirements and outline theconditions for the display of koalas,including exchange of koalas betweeninstitutions overseas and provision ofresources to assist in the conservationof koalas in the wild in Queensland.Moreover, the EPA will requireinterstate organisations intending tomove a koala interstate and thenoverseas to also enter into a similarwritten agreement.Koalas have been gifted bygovernments to overseas cities andzoos in the past and sucharrangements have raised awarenessoverseas of koala conservation inQueensland. However, where the tradein a vulnerable species is permitted, itis appropriate that demonstrablebenefits be derived for theconservation of the species.Accordingly, when koalas are to beexported from Queensland, theexporting and/or receiving institutionswill need to provide significant,tangible benefits towards theconservation of koalas in the wild anddemonstrate that suitable husbandryand population management of captivecolonies are maintained.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 625

To reduce the need to export livekoalas in the future, the EPA is alsoworking with the University ofQueensland, a world-leader on koalabiological research, on reproductivetechnologies for koalas. In future,artificial insemination will provide forthe introduction of new geneticdiversity to local and overseas zoosand provide more effective, less costlymeasures for maintaining viablebreeding colonies.4.9 Research and monitoringPolicy statement• Promote and facilitate koalaresearch and monitoring.• Establish co-operative andindependent research programsdeveloped collaboratively withresearchers, particularlyuniversities.• Provide research data togovernment agencies with landmanagement/use responsibilitiesthat will assist with improved koalamanagement and planning actions.• Ensure the implementation ofsound management techniquesdesigned to halt the decline andlead to the recovery of populationsof koalas in Queensland.• Research and evaluate strategiesto mitigate the impacts ofdevelopment on koalas andkoala habitat.• Collate koala reports from southeastQueensland within a centraldata storage location.• Develop a system forcommunicating koala statistics tostakeholders involved in koalarecovery actions.CommentsA large body of research information isavailable on koalas. The EPA,universities and non-governmentorganisations have completedintensive koala research andmonitoring programs throughoutQueensland. This work, coveringpopulation ecology, genetics, habitatmapping, reproduction, reproductivetechnologies, impacts of threats andassessment of conservation status hasmade a valuable contribution toknowledge of koala biology andmanagement.Research results have been used incombination with data obtained fromthe Moggill Koala Hospital’srehabilitation program to:• identify key conservation areas;• determine trends in threateningprocesses such as those associatedwith habitat loss, disease, dogattack and vehicle strikes;• determine the success of damagemitigation initiatives;• predict and minimise potentialthreatening processes, particularlythose associated with developmentand land use; and• shape current managementstrategies and develop futuremanagement initiatives to betterconserve koala populations acrossthe state.Priorities for future research include:• population surveys acrossthe state;• identification of important habitatand habitat utilisation;• population dynamics and limitingfactors, including disease;• genetic variation in the wild;• key sites for habitat restoration;• road design and mitigation ofroad hazards;• reduction of threats from attack bydomestic dogs;• rehabilitation techniques forrescued koalas;• effects of climate change on koalaviability; and• identification of key koala habitatlinkages to facilitate movement ofkoala populations responding toclimate change.Ongoing monitoring is also importantto assess the effectiveness ofmanagement actions. It is importantto monitor:• the status of koala populations inkey areas over the long-term;• the effectiveness of managementactions and to identify any changesrequired for future management;• disturbed areas and evaluateimpacts of development to providefor best practice developmentrequirements in koala habitatareas; and• the effectiveness of rehabilitationprograms.4.10 Education andcommunity awarenessPolicy statement• Promote an awareness of actionsindividuals can take to protectkoalas and koala habitat.• Educate the community in koalabiology and conservation throughthe dissemination of informationto the public, community groupsand government authorities.• Increase community involvementin koala conservation activities.CommentsCommunity awareness is vital infostering support for koalaconservation. The need for peopleto understand and participate in themanagement strategies in this plan iscritical for the protection of the koala,particularly as the majority of koalasoccur on privately owned land.An education program aimed atempowering people to actively supportkoala conservation will help to reducethe threats arising from co-habitatione.g. dog attacks and vehicle strikes.The EPA, local governments and wildlifeconservation and welfare groups willplay an important role in promotingresponsible behaviour in koala areas.26

The EPA runs koala educationprograms at the Daisy Hill Koala Centrenear Brisbane. Wildlife rangers conducttalks and activities while displays andvideos provide information on koalabiology, ecology and threateningprocesses. This facility, in the heartof the Koala Coast, will continue toprovide education for school childrenand visitors as well as providing avenue where people can see koalason display and in the wild.Koala rescue and rehabilitation groups,including the two koala rehabilitationhospitals at Beerwah and Moggill,provide valuable opportunities to makethe community aware of the koalaprotection issues and solutions.A wide range of organisations alsodisplay koalas, including the EPA’sown David Fleay Wildlife Park on theGold Coast. Similarly, manyorganisations conduct nature-basedtourism and educational activities thatinvolve observing and presentinginformation about koalas at thesedisplays and in the wild. Thesedisplays and activities play animportant role in educating thecommunity about koala conservationissues. The onus is on theseorganisations to ensure messages tovisitors and participants encouragetheir active contribution to koalaconservation.Key messages for any educationprogram may include:• the status of koalas and the needto conserve them;• the importance of retaining habitatand trees;• the responsibilities of propertyowners to ensure the safety of thekoala on their properties;• the management of dogs in koalahabitat;• who to contact if a person finds aninjured or dead koala;• the importance of vehicular speedrestrictions in koala habitat;• koala sensitive development inKoala Habitat Areas; and• protection actions by communitiesthat can make a difference.Articles in local newspapers, newsitems on electronic media, communityservice announcements and brochures,information sheets and permanentdisplays at public locations such asveterinary surgeries, EPA and othercommunity education facilities,shopping centres and libraries willassist in communicating koalaconservation messages. Informationcan also be provided through ratesnotices, dog registration renewalnotices and official web sites.Map 3. Education and communityawareness identifies locations insouth-east Queensland that willbenefit from community education andawareness programs. These areasreflect Koala Habitat Areas and KoalaLiving Areas. The identification of theseareas does not restrict a morewidespread approach to providingeducation and communityawareness programs.Koala Living Areas represent a nonstatutoryclassification identified solelyby the Koala Management Program.These areas are located within southeastQueensland and arepredominately located in highlydeveloped areas but may also occur inother areas, including rural or ruralresidentialareas where koalapopulations are known to occur but notat densities consistent with KoalaHabitat Areas.Koalas within Koala Living Areas arehighly reliant on local parks, treed orlandscaped gardens, clumps andindividual trees and vegetated creeklines, and face significant threats fromdomestic dogs, traffic and removal ofhabitat trees. Opportunities may exist,subject to the planning intent of thearea, to improve the outcomes forthese individuals predominatelythrough community education andawareness programs targeting thesethreats. Opportunities may also existfor local government, where it electsto do so, to target these areas througha variety of mechanisms such as locallaws, community bushcare activitiesand Council’s landscaping activities.Relevant sections and policies inthe Koala Management ProgramSection 4.5 Vehicle related koalamortality.Section 4.6 Domestic dog relatedkoala-mortality.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 627

Map 3Education and community awareness28

Koala conservation criteriafor development assessmentSection 5. Koala conservation criteriafor development assessment containsthe following elements:• 5.1 The SEQ Regional Plan• 5.2 The Nature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan2006 (Koala ConservationPlan)• 5.3 Application of koalaconservation criteria• 5.4 Assessable and nonassessabledevelopment• 5.5 Koala conservation criteria• Annex 1 The State map— KoalaHabitat Areas• Annex 2 Glossary5.1 The SEQ Regional PlanThe SEQ Regional Plan containsregional policies that addressdevelopment and koala conservationin the SEQ region within section 2.2Koala Conservation. Specifically, policy2.2.2 ‘calls up’ the koala conservationcriteria for use in developmentassessment as follows:‘Assess development in KoalaHabitat Areas against the koalaconservation criteria contained inthe Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016,or prior to the adoption of theConservation Plan, the InterimGuideline: Koalas andDevelopment.The Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016contains koala conservation criteriaapplying to assessable developmentin Koala Habitat Areas. The SEQRegional Plan identifies Koala HabitatAreas as being Koala ConservationAreas, Koala Sustainability Areas andUrban Koala Areas.Koala Conservation Areas and KoalaSustainability Areas are identified inMap 5 — Koala Management Areas,within the SEQ Regional Plan. The SEQRegional Plan states Urban Koala Areasare addressed in the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Management Program2006–2016.5.2 The Nature Conservation(Koala) ConservationPlan 2006The Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 defines eachcategory of Koala Habitat Area. Itspecifically addresses Urban KoalaAreas and requires the chief executiveto show each Urban Koala Area on amap, being the State map 3 . The Statemap may also show KoalaConservation Areas and KoalaSustainability Areas.5.3 Application of koalaconservation criteriaSchedule 2 of the Integrated PlanningRegulation 1998 sets out the role andreferral jurisdiction of the EPA fordevelopment relevant to koalaconservation, being that of aconcurrence agency for the purposesof the Nature Conservation Act. Inundertaking this role the EPA willconsider the Nature Conservation Act,the Koala Conservation Plan and theKoala Management Program, includingthe koala conservation criteria,consistent with s3.3.15 of theIntegrated Planning Act.The EPA’s concurrence agency roleapplies in Koala Conservation Areasand Koala Sustainability Areas.3The State map may consist of a series of maps showing how the State is divided into Koala Districts and Koala Habitat Areas. Annex 1 containsthe State Map reflecting Koala Habitat Areas at a cadastral scale. This information is current at the time of printing. Applicants are responsible forobtaining up-to-date information on the location of koala habitat areas. Up-to-date information may be obtained from Map 5 of the SEQ RegionalPlan, and the relevant local government, or the EPA website which contains a current version of the State map. The State map is available forinspection free of charge on the EPA’s website at: www.epa.qld.gov.au; or during office hours on business days, at the Agency’s central officeor at each regional office of the department.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 629

5.4 Assessable and nonassessabledevelopmentArea where the criteria applyThe koala conservation criteria areapplicable only in the South EastQueensland region, as defined by theSEQ Regional Plan. This encompassesthe following 18 local governmentareas: Beaudesert Shire, Boonah Shire,Brisbane City, Caboolture Shire,Caloundra City, Esk Shire, Gatton Shire,Gold Coast City, Ipswich City, KilcoyShire, Laidley Shire, Logan City,Maroochy Shire, Noosa Shire, PineRivers Shire, Redcliffe City, RedlandShire, and Toowoomba City.Development to which thecriteria applyThe koala conservation criteria apply todevelopment located in a Koala HabitatArea if the development is listed inTable 3 and made assessable by:• schedule 8 of the IntegratedPlanning Act;• local government planningschemes; or• the regulatory provisions of the SEQRegional Plan.Table 3 Development to whichthe criteria apply:Column 1 — identifies the relevantKoala Habitat Area.Column 2 — identifies the types ofdevelopment (as defined in section1.3.5 of the Integrated Planning Act)to which the koala conservationcriteria apply.Column 3 — identifies the types ofdevelopment activity to which thekoala conservation criteria apply(e.g. where an application is made fora development that does not involve adevelopment activity as defined inColumn 3, the koala conservationcriteria do not apply)The criteria also apply to proposedcommunity infrastructure designations.Note: As specified in Table 3, the koalaconservation criteria do not apply todevelopment for a domestic activity 4 .The criteria also apply to proposedcommunity infrastructure designations.4Refer to Annex 2: Glossary30

Table 3Development to which the criteria applyColumn 1 Column 2 Column 3Koala Habitat Area Development Development ActivityKoala Conservation AreaandKoala Sustainability AreaUrban Koala Area where thepremises are not —(a) subject to an approvedstructure plan; or(b) located in a Local AreaPlan, DevelopmentControl Plan, MasterPlan, precinct or othersimilar local planninginstrument whichcontains koalamanagement measures;or(c) located within aRegional Activity Centre.Material Change ofUse other than a‘domestic activity’Reconfiguring a lotOperational workMaterial Change ofUse other than a —(a) ‘domestic activity’(b) developmentwhich is consistentwith an existingpreliminaryapproval.Reconfiguring a lotOperational workWhere development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) a new building and any reasonably associated structure with atotal footprint greater than 500m 2 ; or(c) an extension to an existing building and any reasonablyassociated structure if the extension has a footprint greater than500m 2 ; or(d) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(e) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 ; or(f) additional traffic in an area between 6pm on a day and 6am onthe following day.Where development involves:(a) increasing the number of lots; or(b) the clearing of native vegetation.Where development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(c) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 .Where development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) a new building and any reasonably associated structure with atotal footprint greater than 500m 2 ;(c) an extension to an existing building and any reasonablyassociated structure if the extension has a footprint greater than500m 2 ; or(d) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(e) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 .Where development involves:(a) increasing the number of lots; or(b) the clearing of native vegetation.Where development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(c) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 .Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 631

5.5 Koala ConservationCriteriaThis section provides koalaconservation criteria to achievecompliance with the SEQ RegionalPlan’s Koala Conservation Policy 2.2.2.The koala conservation criteriacomprise of the following:(a) Koala Habitat Area overalloutcomes;(b) Tables of assessment criteria.• The relevance of each table ofcriteria is specific to the type ofdevelopment being assessed.Column 3 of Table 4 identifieswhich tables of assessmentcriteria are relevant to differenttypes of development.The tables of assessment criteriaconsist of the following components:(a) Individual criterion• Each criterion is to be read inconjunction with the relevantKoala Habitat Area overalloutcomes.• A development is required toachieve compliance with eachrelevant criterion.(b) Solutions (Urban Koala Area only)• Solutions are a means ofachieving compliance withrelevant criterion.• Where asolution is not provided, or asolution proposed by thedevelopment is different to thesolution found in Column 2 ofTable 12, the applicant mustdemonstrate that the proposalachieves compliance with therelevant criterion.(c) Comments• Comments provide furtheradvice on how each criterionand the solutions can beaddressed.• Comments include references toadditional information, whichmay assist in achievingcompliance with each criterion.Compliance with koalaconservation criteriaDevelopment that is consistent withTables 5–12 listed in Column 3 ofTable 4, complies with the koalaconservation criteria.Table 4Development referenceColumn 1 Column 2 Column 3Koala Habitat Area Development Type Assessment Criteria Table• Koala Conservation Area• Koala Sustainability AreaGeneral Development 5Extractive IndustryTable 5 — GeneralUncommitted DevelopmentTable 6 — GeneralCommitted DevelopmentTable 7 — Uncommitted Extractive IndustryDevelopment in a Key Resource AreaTable 8 — Uncommitted Extractive IndustryDevelopment in a Non-Key ResourceAreaTable 9 — Committed Extractive IndustryDevelopmentExplanatory Note for Extractive Industry in a Key Resource Area:Committed development is taken to be:1. a development committment as at 30 June 2005 where the developmentcommittment remains current; or2. development with a current development approval issued after 30 June 2005.Community Infrastructure Table 10 — Uncommitted CommunityInfrastructure DevelopmentTable 11 — Committed Community InfrastructureDevelopmentExplanatory Note for Community Infrastructure:Committed development is taken to be:1. a development committment as at 30 June 2005 where the developmentcommittment remains current; or2. development with a current development approval issued after 30 June 2005.• Urban Koala Area All Table 12 — All5The term ‘general development’ applies to any assessable development with the exception of a domestic activity, extractive industry or community infrastructure.32

Overall outcomes for KoalaConservation Areas and KoalaSustainability Areas(a) Koalas in the area are protected;(b) Koala habitats are protected,maintained and their integrityenhanced;(c) The ability of koalas to move into,within and out of the area ismaintained;(d) Committed development isdesigned, constructed andoperated in a way that mitigates,to the greatest practicable extent,any adverse effects of thedevelopment on:• koalas or koala habitats in thearea; and• the movement of koalas into,within or out of the KoalaHabitat Area;(e) With the following two exceptions,uncommitted development iscompatible with achieving theoutcomes mentioned in paragraphs(a) to (c):• uncommitted extractive industrydevelopment in a key resourcearea or• uncommitted communityinfrastructure development thatdemonstrates an overridingneed in the public interestjustifying its location within aKoala Conservation Area orKoala Sustainability Area;(f) Within a key resource area,extractive industry developmentthat was uncommitted at 30 June2005, results in a net benefit tokoalas or koala habitats; and(g) Community infrastructuredevelopment that wasuncommitted at 30 June 2005 andjustifies its location within a KoalaConservation Area or KoalaSustainability Area results in a netbenefit to koalas or koala habitats.Table 5Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaGeneral uncommitted developmentCriteriaComments1. Development is not for an urban activity. A domestic activity is exempt development.2. Development does not involve the clearing of koalahabitat trees that have:(a) a height of more than 4m; or(b) a trunk with a diameter of more than 10cm at 1.3m abovethe ground.3. Development provides for koala movement across thelandscape through its design and layout by incorporatingkoala sensitive development.4. Development progressively rehabilitates koala habitatcleared or otherwise disturbed by the development.5. Plants used for landscaping consist of at least 70%Australian plants, of which at least 50% of plants arenative to the area; including koala habitat trees native tothe area.6. Development does not result in:(a) increased vehicular traffic between the hours of 6pm ona day and 6am the following day; or(b) a requirement for bushfire management measures thatwill, or is likely to, result in loss of koalas or degradationof koala habitat or its values.7. Development:(a) minimises the total footprint within which all activities,buildings or structures, driveways, landscaping, fencingor infrastructure are contained;(b) is located in cleared areas or areas that support koalahabitat trees with a height of less than 4m; or a trunkwith a diameter less than 10cm at 1.3m above theground; and(c) has limited impact on adjacent areas.8. Development does not result in adverse impacts onkoalas and koala habitat during construction.Further guidance on how a development can incorporatedesign and layout measures to provide for koala movementis provided within Policy 1: Koala sensitive development.Cleared koala habitat, for the purposes of Table 5, Criterion 4refers to areas where clearing of koala habitat trees isproposed and the koala habitat trees:(a) have a height of less than 4m; or(b) have a trunk with a diameter of less than 10cm at 1.3mabove the ground.Development proposals and/or conditions on developmentapprovals for Material Change of Use or Reconfiguration of aLot should include ‘development envelopes’ to define theextent of development (the total footprint) on thedevelopment site.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 633

Table 6Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaGeneral committed developmentCriteria1. Development is designed and constructed in a way thatminimises the loss and degradation of koala habitat.CommentsAn ecological assessment survey and report, supported by avegetation management plan, should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such asurvey/report will be the subject of an information requestwhen not provided with the development application.Policy 4: Koala survey methodology for site assessmentshould be consulted regarding site assessment of koalasand koala habitat.2. Development provides for koala movement across thelandscape through its design and layout by incorporatingkoala sensitive development.3. Plants used for landscaping consist of at least 70%Australian plants, of which at least 50% of plants arenative to the area; including koala habitat trees native tothe area, to the greatest practicable extent.4. Development(a) minimises the total footprint within which all activities,buildings or structures, driveways, landscaping, fencingor infrastructure are contained;(b) is located in cleared areas or areas that support koalahabitat trees with a height of less than 4m; or a trunkwith a diameter less than 10cm at 1.3m above the ground,where practicable; and(c) minimises its impacts on adjacent areas.5. Development progressively rehabilitates koala habitatcleared or otherwise disturbed by the development.6. Development minimises adverse impacts on koalas andkoala habitat during construction.Refer to the Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Policy 6: Vegetation clearing practices, for furtherinformation regarding vegetation clearing methods andrequirements.Further guidance on how a development can incorporatedesign and layout measures to provide for koala movementis provided within Policy 1: Koala sensitive development.Development proposals and/or conditions on developmentapprovals for Material Change of Use or Reconfiguration of aLot should include ‘development envelopes’ to define theextent of development (the total footprint) on thedevelopment site.34

Table 7Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaUncommitted extractive industry development in a key resource areaCriteria1. Extractive industry development demonstrates a netbenefit to koalas or koala habitat in the area.2. Development is designed and constructed in a way thatminimises the loss and degradation of koala habitat.3. Areas cleared or otherwise disturbed by extractiveindustry development are progressively rehabilitatedunder an approved rehabilitation plan.4. Plants used for landscaping consist of at least 70%Australian plants, of which at least 50% of plants arenative to the area; including koala habitat trees native tothe area.5. Extractive industry development provides for koalamovement across the landscape in its design and layoutby incorporating koala sensitive development, asapplicable to extractive industry development.6. Extractive industry development does not result inincreased vehicular traffic between 6pm on a day and6am on the following day.7. Development minimises adverse impacts on koalasduring operation.CommentsCompliance with Criterion 1 will be achieved if consistentwith Policy 2: Offsets for net benefit to koalas and koalahabitat.An application without a proposed offset package, asidentified in Policy 2: Offsets for net benefit to koalas andkoala habitat, will be the subject of an information request.An ecological assessment survey and report, supported by aVegetation Management Plan, should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such asurvey/report will be the subject of an information requestwhen not provided with the development application.A rehabilitation plan (or similar) should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such aplan will be the subject of an information request when notprovided with the development application.Financial assurance will be a requirement whererehabilitation of cleared or otherwise disturbed areas isproposed under a rehabilitation plan.Further guidance on how a development can incorporatedesign and layout measures to provide for koala movementis provided within Policy 1: Koala sensitive development.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 635

Table 8Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaUncommitted extractive industry development in a non-key resource areaCriteria1. Extractive industry does not involve the clearing of koalahabitat trees that have:(a) a height of more than 4m; or(b) a trunk with a diameter of more than 10cm at 1.3m abovethe ground.2. Extractive industry development provides for koalamovement across the landscape in its design and layoutby incorporating koala sensitive development, asapplicable to extractive industry development.3. Areas cleared or otherwise disturbed by extractiveindustry development are progressively rehabilitated inaccordance with an approved rehabilitation plan.CommentsFurther guidance on how a development can incorporatedesign and layout measures to provide for koala movementis provided within Policy 1: Koala sensitive development.Cleared, for the purposes of Table 8 Criterion 2 refers toareas where clearing of koala habitat trees is proposed andthe koala habitat trees:(a) have a height of less than 4m; or(b) have a trunk with a diameter of less than 10cm at 1.3mabove the ground.A rehabilitation plan (or similar) should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such aplan will be the subject of an information request when notprovided with the development application.4. Plants used for landscaping consist of at least 70%Australian plants, of which at least 50% of plants arenative to the area; including koala habitat trees native tothe area.5. Extractive industry development does not result inincreased vehicular traffic between 6pm on a day and6am on the following day.6. Development minimises adverse impacts on koalasduring operation.Financial assurance is a requirement where the rehabilitationof cleared or otherwise disturbed areas is proposed under arehabilitation plan.36

Table 9Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaCommitted extractive industry developmentCriteria1. Development is designed and constructed in a way thatminimises the loss and degradation of koala habitat.2. Areas cleared or otherwise disturbed by extractiveindustry development are progressively rehabilitated inaccordance with an approved rehabilitation plan.3. Plants used for landscaping consist of at least 70%Australian plants, of which at least 50% of plants arenative to the area; including koala habitat trees native tothe area.4. Extractive industry development provides for koalamovement across the landscape in its design and layoutby incorporating koala sensitive development, asapplicable to extractive industry development, to thegreatest extent practicable.5. Extractive industry development does not result inincreased vehicular traffic between 6pm on a day and6am on the following day.6. Development minimises adverse impacts on koalasduring operation.CommentsAn ecological assessment survey and report, supported by aVegetation Management Plan, should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such asurvey/report will be the subject of an information requestwhen not provided with the development application.Refer to the Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Policy 6: Vegetation clearing practices in thisdocument for further information on vegetation clearingrequirements.A rehabilitation plan (or similar) should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such aplan will be the subject of an information request when notprovided with the development application.Financial assurance is a requirement where the rehabilitationof cleared or otherwise disturbed areas is proposed under arehabilitation plan.Further guidance on how a development can incorporatedesign and layout measures to provide for koala movementis provided within Policy 1: Koala sensitive development.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 637

Table 10Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaUncommitted community infrastructure developmentCriteria1. Community infrastructure development demonstrates anoverriding need in the public interest justifying itslocation in the Koala Conservation or Koala SustainabilityArea.2. Community infrastructure development results in a netbenefit to koalas and koala habitat.3. Community infrastructure development is designed andconstructed in a way that minimises the loss anddegradation of koala habitat.4. Areas cleared or otherwise disturbed by communityinfrastructure development, and which do not form partof the ongoing use, are progressively rehabilitated andprotected.5. Plants used for landscaping consist of at least 70%Australian plants, of which at least 50% of plants arenative to the area; including koala habitat trees native tothe area, to the greatest practicable extent.CommentsFurther guidance on meeting Criterion 1 is located in Policy 3:Determining overriding need in the public interest.An application that does not provide informationdemonstrating an overriding need in the public interestjustifying its location in the Koala Conservation or KoalaSustainability Area, will be the subject of an informationrequest.Compliance with Criterion 2 will be achieved if consistentwith Policy 2: Offsets for net benefit to koalas and koalahabitat.An application without a proposed offset package, asidentified in Policy 2: Offsets for net benefit to koalas andkoala habitat, will be the subject of an information request.An ecological assessment survey and report, supported by avegetation management plan (or similar), should be providedwith the development application to support thedevelopment proposal where removal of koala habitat isproposed. Such a survey/report will be the subject of aninformation request when not provided with the developmentapplication.Refer to the Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Policy 6: Vegetation clearing requirements of thisdocument for further information regarding vegetationclearing requirements.A rehabilitation plan (or similar) should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such aplan will be the subject of an information request when notprovided with the development application.6. Community infrastructure development provides for koalamovement across the landscape in its design and layoutby incorporating koala sensitive development, asapplicable to the community infrastructure development.7. Development minimises adverse impacts on koalasduring operation.38

Table 11Koala Conservation Area and Koala Sustainability AreaCommitted community infrastructure developmentCriteria1. Community infrastructure is designed and constructed ina way that minimises the loss and degradation of koalahabitat.2. Areas cleared or otherwise disturbed by communityinfrastructure development and which do not form part ofthe ongoing use, are progressively rehabilitated andprotected.3. Plants used for landscaping consist of at least 70%Australian plants, of which at least 50% of plants arenative to the area, including koala habitat trees native tothe area.4. Community infrastructure development provides for koalamovement across the landscape in its design and layoutby incorporating koala sensitive development asapplicable to the community infrastructure development,to the greatest extent practicable.5. Development minimises adverse impacts on koalas andkoala habitat during construction and operation.CommentsAn ecological assessment survey and report, supported by avegetation management plan, should be provided with thedevelopment application to support the developmentproposal where removal of koala habitat is proposed. Such asurvey/report will be the subject of an information requestwhen not provided with the development application.Refer to the Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Policy 6: Vegetation clearing requirements in thisdocument for further information regarding vegetationclearing methods and requirements.Further guidance on how a development can incorporatedesign and layout measures to provide for koala movementis provided within Policy 1: Koala sensitive development.Overall outcomes for Urban KoalaAreas(a) Development includes measures toassist the survival of koalapopulations in the area, havingregard to the planning intent andrequirements stated, or otherwisereflected, in local governmentplanning schemes, applying to thedevelopment;(b) Koala habitat linkages that areimportant to koalas are maintained,to the greatest practicable extent;(c) Committed development in the areais designed, constructed andoperated in a way that mitigates, tothe greatest practicable extent, anyadverse effects of thedevelopment on:(i) koalas or koala habitats in thearea; and(ii) the movement of koalas into,within or out of the area.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 639

Table 12Urban Koala AreaAll developmentCriteria Solution Comments1. Development is consistentwith the urban intent of thearea while maintainingkoala habitat linkages, andincorporating koalasensitive development,where practicable.1.1 Development maintains koala habitat linkages.1.2 The location and design of buildings,structures and other works, to the extentpracticable, allows koalas to traverse thelandscape in which the development islocated. This includes:(a) Siting buildings/structures, roads andworks in ways that minimise thefragmentation of koala habitat to beretained.(b) Incorporating layout and design measuresto minimise the extent to which a koala thatis traversing the landscape is impeded fromreaching its destination either within thedevelopment site, or on the other side ofthe development site.(c) Locating buildings/structures and otherworks in existing cleared areas.(d) Retaining koala habitat trees in those partsof the development site not required forachieving the development objectives ofthe site.(e) Providing habitat links of native vegetationacross the site.(f) Erecting koala friendly fences on lotboundaries, except where koala exclusionfences are the only practical way ofsafeguarding koalas from uses on the lot.1.3 Roads or road networks are located, designedand constructed to minimise the risk to koalasfrom vehicle strike.1.4 Plants used for landscaping comprise 70%Australian plants of which 50% are native tothe area, including koala habitat trees nativeto the area, where practicable.The urban intent includes anyrelevant urban developmentobjectives and commitmentscontained in:• The SEQ Regional Plan;• Structure plan;• Planning scheme;• Existing preliminary ordevelopment approval.Guidance on koala sensitivedevelopment is located within Policy1: Koala sensitive development.Undertaking an ecologicalassessment of a site with ecologicalvalues prior to development isdeemed Best Practice and will assistin identifying habitat linkages.Further guidance on undertakingecological assessments for koalasand koala habitat is located in Policy4: Koala survey methodology for siteassessment.Refer to the Nature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andPolicy 6: Vegetation clearingpractices for further informationregarding vegetation clearingmethods and requirements.40

Table 12Urban Koala AreaAll development (cont)Criteria Solution Comments2. Development with densitiesbelow 5 dwellings perhectare or lots greater than2000m 2 are designed,consistent with the urbanintent of the area, to:(a) incorporate koalasensitivedevelopment; and(b) maintain habitatlinkages.2.1 Development maintains habitat linkages.2.2 The location and design of buildings,structures and other works, to the extentpracticable, allows koalas to traverse thelandscape in which the development islocated. This includes:(a) Siting buildings/structures, roads andworks in ways that minimise thefragmentation of koala habitat to beretained;(b) Incorporating layout and design measuresto minimise the extent to which a koalathat is traversing the landscape is impededfrom reaching its destination either withinthe development site, or on the other sideof the development site;(c) Locating buildings/structures and otherworks in existing cleared areas;(d) Retaining koala habitat trees in those partsof the development site not required forachieving the development objectives ofthe site;(e) Providing habitat links containing nativevegetation across the site;(f) Erecting koala-friendly fences on lotboundaries, except where koala exclusionfences are the only practical way ofsafeguarding koalas from uses on the lot.2.3 Roads or road networks are located, designedand constructed to minimise the risk to koalasfrom vehicle strike.2.4 Plants used for landscaping comprise 70%Australian plants of which 50% are native tothe area, including koala habitat trees nativeto the area, where practicable.2.5 Development is designed to:(a) minimise the total footprint within which allactivities, buildings or structures,driveways, landscaping, fencing orinfrastructure are contained(b) be located in cleared areas or areas thatsupport koala habitat trees with a height ofless than 4m; or a trunk with a diameterless than 10cm at 1.3m above the ground,where practicable;(c) minimise impacts on adjacent areas.The urban intent includes anyrelevant urban developmentobjectives and commitmentscontained in:• The SEQ Regional Plan;• Planning scheme;• Existing preliminary ordevelopment approval.Guidance on koala sensitivedevelopment is located withinPolicy 1: Koala sensitive development.Undertaking an ecologicalassessment of a site with ecologicalvalues prior to development isdeemed Best Practice and will assistin identifying habitat linkages.Further guidance on undertakingecological assessments for koalasand koala habitat is located inPolicy 4: Koala survey methodologyfor site assessment.Refer to the Nature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andPolicy 6: Vegetation clearingpractices for further informationregarding vegetation clearingmethods and requirements.Development proposals and/orconditions on developmentapprovals for Material Change of Useor Reconfiguration of a Lot shouldinclude ‘development envelopes’ todefine the extent of development(the total footprint) on thedevelopment site.Addressing Criterion 2.3 couldinclude, for example, measures toassist koalas to cross roads moresafely as well as maximising thenumber of no through roads in roadnetwork design.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 641

Annex 1 The State map — Koala Habitat AreasKoala Habitat Areas Brisbane City (East)42

Koala Habitat Areas Caboolture ShireNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 643

Koala Habitat Areas Gold Coast City44

Koala Habitat Areas Logan CityNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 645

Koala Habitat Areas Maroochy Shire46

Koala Habitat Areas Noosa ShireNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 647

Koala Habitat Areas Redcliffe City48

Koala Habitat Areas Redland ShireNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 649

Koala Habitat Areas Caloundra City50

Koala Habitat Areas Ipswich CityNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 651

Koala Habitat Areas Pine Rivers Shire52

Koala Habitat Areas Brisbane City (West)Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 653

Annex 2 GlossaryChief executive: means the chiefexecutive of the Agency in which theNature Conservation Act 1992 isadministered.Clear: see the Integrated Planning Act1997, schedule 10.Committed development: means adevelopment commitmentCommunity infrastructure: seeIntegrated Planning Act 1997,schedule 5.Concurrence agency: see IntegratedPlanning Act 1997, schedule 10.Development application: see theIntegrated Planning Act 1997,schedule 10.Development commitment: meansany of the following:(a) a development with a currentdevelopment approval; or(b) a material change of use clearlyconsistent with:(i) if within the Regional Landscapeand Rural Production Area, RuralLiving Area, Investigation Area —the regulatory provisions of theSEQ Regional Plan; and thepurposes of codes (or equivalentpolicy intents) of the relevantzone (or equivalent) and anyapplicable overlays in therelevant planning scheme; or(ii) if within the Urban Footprint —the purposes of codes (orequivalent policy intents) of therelevant zone (or equivalent)and any applicable overlays inthe planning scheme; or(c) reconfiguring a lot consistent with:(i) if within the Regional Landscapeand Rural Production Area, RuralLiving Area, Investigation Area— the regulatory provisionsof the SEQ Regional Plan; andthe purposes of codes (orequivalent policy intents) ofthe relevant zone (or equivalent)and any applicable overlays inthe relevant planning scheme; or(ii) if within the Urban Footprint —the purposes of codes (orequivalent policy intents) of therelevant zone (or equivalent)and any applicable overlaysin the planning scheme; or(d) building or operational work:(i) arising from and necessarilyassociated with a validdevelopment approval for amaterial change of use orreconfiguring a lot; or(ii) consistent with the planningscheme; or(iii) that is a developmentconsistent with a communityinfrastructure designation.Domestic activity: means theconstruction or use of a singleresidence on a lot and any reasonablyassociated building or structure.Examples of a building or structurethat could be reasonably associatedwith a single residence—caretaker’sresidence, granny flat, building orstructure used for a home business.Extractive industry development:means assessable development thatis for:(a) the extraction and processing ofextractive resources for use ininfrastructure or construction; and(b) activities associated with theextraction and processing.However, extractive industrydevelopment does not include theextraction of rock in slab form for abuilding or monument.Total footprint, of a building and anyreasonably associated structure, oran extension of an existing buildingand any reasonably associatedstructure, means: the total area ofland developed for the building andstructure, or the extension, including,for example, the areas covered by thefollowing:(a) the floor area of the building andstructure or the extension;(b) landscaping and fencing for thebuilding and structure or theextension;(c) a car park, driveway or other facilityassociated with the building andstructure or the extension.General development: means anyassessable development with theexception of a domestic activity,extractive industry or communityinfrastructure.Habitat linkage: means koala habitatthat allows for and promotes themovement of koalas into, within, orout of an area.Koala conservation criteria: means thekoala conservation criteria mentionedin the Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006, section 8.Key resource area: means an areaidentified as a key resource area in aState planning policy about extractiveresources made under the IntegratedPlanning Act 1997, chapter 2, part 4.Koala:(a) means a mammal of the speciesPhascolarctos cinereus and(b) includes the reproductive materialof a mammal mentioned inparagraph (a).54

Koala conservation area: means(a) each part of the State shown on theSEQ map as a koala conservationarea; and(b) if a local government has anapproved local government mapfor its area—each part of the localgovernment’s area shown on themap as a koala conservation area.Koala habitat: means(a) a woodland where koalas currentlylive; or(b) a partially or completely clearedarea that is used by koalas to crossfrom one woodland where koalascurrently live to another woodlandwhere koalas currently live; or(c) a woodland where koalas do notcurrently live if the woodland:(i) primarily consists of koalahabitat trees; and(ii) is reasonably suitable to sustainkoalas.Koala habitat area: means(a) a Koala Conservation Area; or(b) a Koala Sustainability Area; or(c) an Urban Koala Area.Koala habitat tree: means a tree of anyof the following genera:(a) Angophora;(b) Corymbia;(c) Eucalyptus;(d) Lophostemon; and(e) Melaleuca.Koala habitat values: means thosecharacteristics of an area that make itsuitable as habitat or refuge for koalas.These characteristics include thenature, extent, condition andconnectivity of an area and its relationto other areas of habitat.Koala sensitive development: meansdevelopment that reflects theintegration of targeted planning,design, construction and operationalmeasures which avoid (wherepossible), minimise and mitigate theimpacts associated with developmentand associated infrastructure, onkoalas and koala habitat. It createspermeable environments that:• promote the safe movement ofkoalas within and across thelandscape; and• reduces the threats to koalas.Koala Sustainability Area: means(a) each part of the State shown on theSEQ map as a koala sustainabilityarea; and(b) if a local government has anapproved local government map forits area—each part of the localgovernment’s area shown on themap as a koala sustainability area.Net benefit to koalas and koalahabitat: an overall improvement in thelong term viability of koala populationsin the wild.Offsets: an offset is an action inconservation undertaken by anapplicant to compensate for anadverse environmental impactelsewhere.Other development: meansdevelopment other than an extractiveindustry or community infrastructure.Regional Activity Centre: see SEQRegional Plan.SEQ Regional Plan: means the SouthEast Queensland Regional Plan 2005-2006 made under the IntegratedPlanning Act 1997.Structure Plan: see SEQ Regional Plan.Uncommitted development: meansdevelopment that is not a developmentcommitment.Urban activity: means an urban activityas defined by the SEQ Regional Plan,Part H: The Regulatory Provisions.Urban Koala Area: means(a) each part of the State shown on theState map as an Urban Koala Area;and(b) if a local government has anapproved local government map forits area—each part of the localgovernment’s area shown on themap as an Urban Koala Area.SEQ map: means map 5 of the SEQRegional Plan.SEQ region: means the SEQ region asdescribed in the Integrated PlanningAct 1997, section 2.5A.2State map: see the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 section 10(1).Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 655

Koala policiesPolicy 1:PurposeKoala sensitivedevelopmentThe purpose of this policy is to:• provide direction on achievingcompliance with the koalaconservation criteria fordevelopment assessment withinthe Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016appropriate to the Koala HabitatArea, development type anddevelopment commitment; and• establish the objectives andpractices which can be applied byState and local government and thedevelopment industry to providefor, and promote the movementof koalas into, within or out ofan area.When this policy appliesThis policy applies to developmentlocated within a Koala Habitat Areain the SEQ region, as identified by theSEQ Regional Plan and localgovernment planning schemes.What this policy doesThe policy outlines measures thatcan be used to reduce the impact ofdevelopment on koala populations.Collectively these measures are knownas koala sensitive development. Thispolicy identifies what is koala sensitivedevelopment for the purposes ofdevelopment assessment, and how itmay be achieved. However, it does notpurport to be the only authority.Nothing in this policy restricts a localgovernment from requiring alternativeor more stringent koala sensitivedevelopment measures than that setout in the policy.The Koala Plan promotes innovation toachieve improved outcomes for koalasand koala habitat through koalasensitive development.Further guidance and informationThe EPA will facilitate the provision offurther guidance and informationregarding the implementation ofkoala sensitive development in theform of technical guidelines thataddress matters such as providing forkoala movement.Definition of koala sensitivedevelopmentKoala sensitive development isdevelopment that reflects theintegration of targeted planning,design, construction and operationalmeasures which avoid (wherepossible), minimise and mitigate theimpacts associated with developmentand associated infrastructure, onkoalas and koala habitat.The aim of koala sensitivedevelopment is to create permeableenvironments that:• provide for the safe movement ofkoalas within and across thelandscape; and• reduce the threats to koalas.Koala sensitive development can beimplemented at both the strategic and/or site level scale.Koala Habitat AreasStrategic planningThe overall outcomes for Koala HabitatAreas (refer to section 5: Koalaconservation criteria for developmentassessment) are to be reflected withinall relevant strategic planningdocuments. These documents include:• local growth managementstrategies;• structure plans,• local government planningschemes;• local area plans, developmentcontrol plans, master plans, ruralprecinct plans or other similarplanning instruments;• local government natureconservation strategies; and• State Government plans andstudies.Koala sensitive developmentobjectivesKoala sensitive developmentobjectives include:(1) protection of undisturbed areaswhere koalas live in conservationand open space areas;56

(2) provision of continuousconnections of habitat wherefragmentation by roads and otherstructures is minimised;(3) linkage of on-site habitat to habitatexternal to the site;(4) reconnecting and rehabilitatingdisturbed habitat linkages andareas retained within open space;(5) buffering and protecting retainedhabitat from the impacts ofearthworks, clearing, weed invasionand inappropriate fire regimes;(6) responding to a site’s opportunitiesand constraints to maximise theretention of habitat andindividual trees;(7) mitigating threats fromdomestic dogs;(8) minimising and mitigating impactsfrom road traffic;(9) promoting community awarenessthrough education;(10)incorporating a range of layout anddesign measures designed toprovide for safe koala movement,including:• koala friendly fencing;• koala friendly swimming pooldesign;• koala exclusion fencing whereappropriate;• landscaping with nativevegetation, including locallyoccurring koala habitat trees;• retention of koala habitat withinroad verges, district, local andpocket parks andresidential lots;• road design, alignment andconstruction that aims to, whereappropriate, reduce speed,increase visibility and providefor safe road crossings;• utilise measures, such ascovenants and body corporate/community title provisions, toachieve layout and designmeasures.Implementation of koala sensitivedevelopment objectivesKoala movement across a site or areacan be facilitated through the followingmeasures:(1) Establishing the context of thedevelopment;(2) Undertaking a site assessment;(3) Undertaking constraint analysisand preparation of a layout planbased on points 1 and 2;(4) Identifying detailed designspecifications, other measures,considerations and requirements,including:(A) Management of vegetation loss;(i) Open space;(ii) Vegetation removal; and(iii) On-going vegetationmanagement;(B) Providing permeability;(i) Lot layout(ii) Habitat linkages; and(iii) Fencing – koala friendlyand koala exclusion;(C) Rehabilitation of koala habitat;(D) Landscaping;(E) Local government roads;(F) Community infrastructure andutility services; and(G) Dog management;(5) Defining development envelopes;(6) Road design;(7) Construction;(8) Extractive industry;(9) Covenants/community title; and(10)Community education andawareness;(A) Swimming pool design; and(B) Neighbourhood education.1. Establishing the contextof the developmentConsider the role the site undertakeswithin the broader landscape. Koalamovement should be considered interms of the koala habitat onsurrounding lots and the likely areasthat koalas use to traverse the site andsurrounding area.• Is the site predominately clearedbut forms a critical link in itsundeveloped state between otherareas of koala habitat? (Note: koalahabitat can be cleared area andnon-remnant vegetation).• Does the site form part of arecognised bioregional wildlifecorridor, local government corridoror rehabilitation or revegetationcorridor?• Has local government identifiedstrategic habitat linkages and areasthrough local planning processes?• Is the site adjacent to protectedarea estate, local governmentreserve or park?• Does the site have other significantecological values (e.g. wetlands)?2. Undertaking a site assessmentRefer to Policy 4: Koala SurveyMethodology for Site Assessment3. Undertaking constraintanalysis and preparation ofa layout planIdentify opportunities for habitatretention:• locate buildings, structures andinfrastructure within existingcleared or disturbed areas or areasthat are of lesser importance tokoalas (as determined by siteassessment), to the greatest extentpracticable; and• maximise opportunities to retainindividual trees, clumps andhabitat linkages by integrating withother functions or areas:• open space — regional, district,local and pocket parks;• road verges; and• backyards (e.g. in corners alongboundary lines).Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 657

4. Identifying detailed designspecifications, othermeasures, considerationsand requirements(A) Vegetation management(i) Open spaceOpen space can provide valuablehabitat to koalas. Open space should:• supplement existing koala habitatthrough additional plantings ofkoala habitat trees and therehabilitation of degraded areas;and• provide linkages to adjacenthabitat.(ii) Vegetation removalThe removal of vegetation duringdevelopment should involve thefollowing:• retention of medium sizedunderstorey native species(Banksia, Acacia, Callistemon andMelaleuca) that are suitable forsmall backyards;• sequential clearing of vegetation toprovide sufficient time and space toallow any koala residing in a tree tomove to alternative habitat withoutharm (Refer to Policy 6: Vegetationclearing practices);• careful removal of large single treesto minimise disturbance tosurrounding vegetation andlandscapes;• avoiding the placement of fill onthe root zone of eucalypts whichare to be retained as the fill starvesthe roots of oxygen and water; and• removing the minimum number oftrees required, to the extentpracticable.(iii) On-going vegetationmanagementManagement of retained orrehabilitated vegetation during andpost development is important toachieve the long term retention ofhabitat or habitat links planned in theconceptual stage of the development.The following should be considered:• design the development to limithigh impact activities on koalahabitat and retained vegetation;• manage site works and contractorsto ensure against unapproved oraccidental removal or tree deaths(e.g. from altered sediment ornutrient loads created duringclearing or construction);• manage road side vegetation toensure visibility for driver safety;• plan and implement fire and weedmanagement strategies with thecommunity and local government toensure long term actions to reducethe loss of koalas or degradation ofkoala habitat or its values;• encourage the planting of nativevegetation local to the area anddiscourage weed planting; and• place fencing and signage in areasto raise awareness of theimportance of habitat for koalas.Refer also to Policy 6: VegetationClearing Practices, and Policy 11:Rehabilitation of Land to ProvideKoala Habitat.(B) Providing for permeabilityPermeability of a site or area can beprovided for by:• locating buildings/structures, roadsand works to minimise thefragmentation of koala habitat tobe retained;• locating buildings/structures andworks in a manner that providespathways, clearways or climbingroutes accessable and safe forkoalas around these impedimentsfor koalas traversing the site;• minimising the creation of largeareas that exclude traversingkoalas including minimising thearea enclosed by koala exclusionfences and erecting only koalasensitive fences on lot boundaries;and• where new roads are required,including design measures thatenable koalas to cross safely;• retaining koala habitat trees acrossthe site in a manner that provideshabitat links and refuges for koalas.(i) Lot layout• retain koala habitat trees to thegreatest extent practicable;• minimise the need for extensiveearthworks and retaining walls;• incorporate koala exclusion fencingwithin part of a lot or premises as acomponent of a whole-ofdevelopmentstrategy tomanage dogs;• incorporate koala-friendly fencingelsewhere; and• minimise impenetrable areasresulting from building density.(ii) Habitat linkagesThe most important characteristics of ahabitat link are that it connects two ormore areas of habitat, and providesopportunities for koala dispersal andgene flow between koala populationsas well as a relatively safe area forresidential koala movement and refugefor koalas.Habitat linkages should be establishedwhenever an opportunity is identifiedand should incorporate the followingprinciples:• links are provided to habitatbeyond the boundary of thedevelopment site;• multiple links between habitatareas are provided to maximiseconnectivity;58

• links are based on existing naturalfeatures, such as watercoursesand associated riparian vegetation,and areas of remnant and regrowthvegetation;• land unsuitable for development,including flood-prone land or steepland is also used to provide links;• links are made as wide as possible.Links 100m in width or greater arerecommended as they minimise‘edge effects’, but may not beachievable in all circumstances;• where links include cleared orpartially cleared areas, these arerevegetated consistent with thepre-clearing species composition;• where it is impracticable to providefor vegetated linkages, single treesor small clumps of trees areretained or planted across a siteto provide temporary shelter; and• as far as practicable, roads orother service corridors are locatedoutside koala habitat or linksbetween habitat.(iii) Fencing – Koala-friendlyand koala exclusionFences are a major obstacle to koalamovement. Koalas become easilyconfused and disoriented whenconfronted with a new fence. Increasedtime spent on the ground increasestheir vulnerability to dogs (particularlyin domestic yards) and traffic. A ‘koala’friendly fence does not hinder themovement of, nor trap, a koala.Koala-friendly fencingThe following approaches to fencedesign are aimed at reducing theimpact of fences on koala movementand mortality:(a) allow koalas to climb easily throughor over the fence by:• choosing materials, such astimber post-and-rail or chainwire, that a koala can easilygrip and climb;• not stringing wire strands tootightly;• using rails or slats that are notmore than 15cm wide; and• leaving at least a 30cm gapbetween ground level and thefirst rail or strand.(b) provide a means for koalas to getover a fence that cannot be easilyclimbed by:• installing a timber post leaningagainst the fence at a 45 degreeangle on either side;• planting vegetation within veryclose proximity (branchestouching or trunks within onemetre of each other) on eitherside of the fence to provide anatural ladder;• installing panels or plankshorizontally along the top of thefence to provide a walkway; and• building the fence aroundexisting trees and vegetation.Koala exclusion fencingIn some cases, it is advisable toprevent koalas from entering an areathat poses a threat to their health andwell being. Koala exclusion fencingmay be appropriate in a number ofinstances. These include:• where a fence is erected withinpart of a lot or premises to separatedomestic dogs from koalas;• where animals need to be funnelledto ‘safe’ crossing points on, over orunder roadways; and• where intensive construction orongoing operational activitiesare underway.General principles for exclusionfencing are:• exclusion fencing should not beroutinely used as a means ofsafeguarding koalas from hazards,except for the management ofdomestic dogs and the protectionof koalas from high volume/highspeed roadways;• koala exclusion fences should notbe placed on large lot boundarieswhere such fences could bepracticably sited to enclose a muchsmaller area; and• erect koala-friendly fences on lotboundaries, except where koalaexclusion fences are the onlypractical way of safeguardingkoalas from incompatible uses(or domestic dogs) on a lot.Exclusion fencing to separate dogsand koalasTo separate domestic dogs fromkoalas, exclusion fencing should:• only be erected over a maximumof 70 percent of the site/premisesor boundary;• be made of a material that koalascan not easily grip, including, forexample, tin panels; and• have a gap of less than 10cmbetween the ground andappropriate fencing material.Exclusion fencing for roadwaysThere are two types of exclusionfencing:(a) smooth metal or perspex sheets ofat least 50cm in height attached tothe top of fencing that koalas canclimb. This prevents koalas fromgripping and climbing over thefence. These slippery materials canbe fitted to the tops of mostexisting or new fences includingchain link; and(b) of a floppy topped design. Floppyfencing is designed so that a koalacan climb it but it will flop over withthe animal’s weight and force it todrop back to the ground on the safeside. These are often made from achain link material.Nearby trees and shrubs should be atleast three metres away from theexclusion fencing.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 659

(C) Rehabilitation of koala habitatRehabilitation of koala habitat should:• select species to mirror thosealready occurring naturally in thearea, and preferably be propagatedfrom local seed stock (i.e. fromseed collected on site or in thelocal area);• provide for the planting of trees ata density to mirror surroundingundisturbed areas;• provide a range of understorey andgroundcover species in addition tocanopy species to provide a naturalenvironment and ecosystemfunction of plants suited to the site.Koalas commonly shelter in shadierunderstorey species such asCasuarina, Banksia, Melaleucaand Acacia;• allow for adequate monitoringand maintenance of planting sitesincluding watering, mulching andweeding until the plants are able tosurvive without human intervention;• require trees to be well spaced(minimum three metres apart) ingroupings to develop full crowns,rather than dense mass plantingswhich encourage tall growth;• as necessary, provide for the useof smaller koala-friendly treeswhich are less prone to droppinglimbs (if compliance with safetyand infrastructure requirementsis an issue);• provide for rehabilitation to targetthose areas where koalas areexperiencing significant levelsof mortality from dogs and cars;• provide for the restoration ofdegraded areas to mirror formerlandscape;• develop roadside verges with koalahabitat trees in residential streetswith low speed limits; and• limit revegetation of low shrubs andground cover along State-controlledroads to allow for greater visibilityof koalas crossing the road.(D) LandscapingGeneral principles for landscaping are:• plants used for landscaping shouldcomprise 70 percent of Australianplants of which 50 percent arenative to the locality and includetrees of the genera Eucalyptus,Corymbia, Angophora,Lophostemon or Melaleuca knownto be favoured by koalas (exceptwhere trees of these species areinappropriate for the site becauseof their size or intolerance of theground or soil conditions);• species composition should reflectthat of the site (pre-clearing) oradjacent areas;• landscaping should not impedethe spatial movement of koalas(for example, dense hedges thatwould act as a fence and restrictthe movement of koalas); and• landscaping should not adverselyimpact on the surroundingenvironment and ecological values.(E) Local government roadsRefer to Policy 12: Local roadplacement, design and upgrade.(F) Community infrastructure andutility servicesCommunity infrastructure and utlitityservices such as power andtelecommunications, sewerage, watersupply and stormwater drainageshould be appropriately located anddesigned to minimise the impact onkoala habitat and movement. Inparticular, buildings, other structuresor utility services should:(a) be located in existing cleared areasto the greatest extent practicable;(b) avoid, where possible, crossing orfragmenting important habitatareas;(c) for utility services, be co-locatedto the greatest extent practicableand share utility trenches wherepossible;(d) adopt appropriate constructiontechniques (refer to 7. Constructiontechniques)(e) include measures to provide forthe safe movement of koalas whererequired (refer to 4 (B) Providingfor permeability); and(f) minimise the use of koala exclusionfencing, except where it applies toroads and in the achievementof (e).(G) Dog managementDomestic dog attacks on koalas inbackyards are known to result in highkoala mortality. A number ofopportunities exist to address dogrelatedkoala mortality. These include:• creating dog free estates usingcovenants or community title toprohibit in perpetuity the keepingof dogs, or limiting of the breed/size of dog allowed to be kept inKoala Habitat Areas;• containing dogs to the house or aportion of the yard at night whenkoalas are most active; or• using koala exclusion fencing (referto 4(B)(iii) Fencing).60

5. Defining developmentenvelopesDevelopment envelopes should beestablished at the Material Changeof Use or Reconfiguration of Lot stageand established to:(a) minimise the developmentfootprint;(b) be located in cleared areas that donot support koala habitat trees witha height greater than 4m; or a trunkwith a diameter greater than 10cmat 1.3m above the ground;(c) incorporate all activities, buildingsor structures, driveways,landscaping, fencing orinfrastructure; and(d) limit impacts on adjacent areasoutside of the envelope.Development envelopes may not beappropriate in all areas orcircumstances, e.g. Urban Koala Areas.6. Road designA significant threat to koalas inQueensland is injury sustained fromstrikes by vehicles. To effectivelymitigate the impact of roads, acombination of approaches need tobe applied including:(a) strategic location of road corridorsto ensure significant habitat areasare not dissected or furtherfragmented;(b) strategies to minimise vehicle–animal interaction;(c) reducing the speed of vehiclesand using other traffic calmingmeasures;(d) increasing drivers’ visibility ofkoalas; and(e) raising public awareness of thoseareas where koalas are more likelyto frequently cross roads.Strategies used in road location anddesign should have regard to thespatial location of habitat (and clearedareas) and habitat type, the numberof vehicles likely to use the proposedroads, the anticipated vehicle speeds,and the likely volumes of trafficbetween the hours of 6pm and 6am.Designing New RoadsRoads that have higher speed limits(such as State-controlled roads) shouldinclude measures to minimise the riskto koalas crossing the roads, where theroads pass through or are adjacent tokoala habitat.Roads should be designed to limitspeed and collisions and to provideappropriate crossings for koalas.Management practices used duringthe planning, design, constructionand operational phases may alleviatesome of the impacts of roads on koalapopulations. The QueenslandDepartment of Main Roads hasproduced the document FaunaSensitive Road Design - Volume 1: Pastand Existing Practices, which suggeststhat the following key principles, ifemployed, are likely to have a positiveinfluence on fauna populations:• avoid major habitat areas;• avoid bisecting large habitat areaswhere possible;• minimise clearing;• retain or establish vegetatedhabitat linkages; and• include appropriate structures thatassist the safe movement of a widerange of fauna across, over andunder roads.Road design and landscaping shouldalso assist with the detection of koalason roads. (Refer to Policy 12: Local roadplacement, design and upgrade.)Where the dissection of koala habitatcannot be avoided, mitigationapproaches should be implemented.These might include exclusion fencing,which prevents koalas moving tocertain areas, and guidance to safecrossings with enforced traffic calmingand low speed limits, underpasses,culverts or bridges. In general, whereroads dissect areas of significanthabitat, the road should be as narrowas possible, and edges should bereplanted with suitable native species.In contrast, vegetated corridors thatlink core habitat areas should be aswide as possible (Main Roads, 2004).Road design andconstruction techniquesTaking these factors into account, thefollowing road design and constructiontechniques can be implemented asappropriate according to the roadfunction:(a) Using koala exclusion fencing alongthe road to direct koalas to:• overpasses, underpasses orculverts; or• designated koala crossingswith the following features:(a) increased lighting andwarning signs;(b) speed reduction devices;• road crossings that are narrow,raised and painted; and• trimmed vegetation at crossingpoints to increase visibility.(b) Reducing vehicles speeds on roadsother than State-controlled roadsby incorporating:• curving and winding roadsections;• speed reduction devices;• awareness signs;• signed low speed limits(residential roads); and• other traffic calming devices.Existing roads and safe crossingsWhere available, records can beused to identify sections of roads thathave an unacceptably high numberof koala deaths. Once identified, theseroads can be targeted for lower speedlimits, traffic calming, exclusionfencing, increasing visibility, andawareness programs to provide a safeNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 661

crossing point. Exclusion fencing canbe designed to deter koalas and otherfauna from moving through some areasthat may lead them to roads or canguide them to a safe crossing point.There are various methods ofalerting drivers to a changed trafficenvironment and to the need to reducespeed to increase reaction time.These actions will also provide a saferenvironment for people and canenhance the streetscape appearancewithin the developed area. Methodsinclude:• rumble strip crossings;• road painting;• adequate lighting to enhancevisibility for drivers;• enforced speed limits that aresigned and slower when koalasare most active e.g. 6am–6pmand August–December;• speed bumps;• the use of appropriately designedover- and under-passes;• narrowing the road at the crossingpoint and planting koala food/habitat trees at the narrower pointto provide refuge for koalas whileproviding visibility for drivers;• curving and winding roads toreduce speeds. Straight roadsencourage speed and movementof cars; and• planting trees on small islands inthe middle of a road.Where it is desirable to have higherspeed limits for the purposes of‘moving people’, crossings will not be‘safe’ and so other methods that allowfor the safe movement of koalas shouldbe employed.7. Construction techniquesThe impact of construction workson koalas and koala habitat can beminimised by the following actions(though is not restricted to):• staging or limiting site disturbanceand vegetation removal to onlythe area and stage necessary forconstruction purposes (progressivestaging);• using protective fencing to avoidaccidental damage to retainednative vegetation and to preventstockpiling gravel and othermaterials near the root zoneof trees;• conducting the clearing of treessequentially and under theguidance of a koala spotter (Referto Policy 6: Vegetation clearingpractices);• not conducting any operationsbetween the hours of 6pm and6am;• safeguarding koalas fromdangerous equipment and worksusing koala exclusion fencing, ifrequired—refer to 4(B) Providing forpermeability;• effectively controlling dogs on site;and• landscaping and/or revegetatingthe site where works have beencompleted as soon as possible(progressive landscaping/rehabilitation) (Refer to Policy 11:Rehabilitation of land to providekoala habitat).8. Extractive industryExtractive industry can result in thetemporary or permanent loss of koalahabitat from the site. The followingkoala sensitive development measureswill assist in minimising the loss ofkoala habitat:• appropriate siting of ancillarybuildings, structures and otherworks—refer to 5. Definingdevelopment envelopes;• faciliate koala movement acrossthe site—refer to 4(B) Providingfor permeability;• minimise the area enclosed bykoala exclusion fencing anderecting only koala friendly fenceson lot boundaries—refer to 4(B) (iii)Fencing;• where new roads are required,including design measures thatenable koalas to cross safely—referto 6. Road design;• ensure construction techniquesminimize the impact on koalasand their habitat—refer to 7.Construction techniques;• conduct operations in a mannerthat minimises deterrents to koalamovement at night (e.g. theeffective control of dogs, noiseand traffic); and• progressively staged andrehabilitation of the site, involving:(a) staging the operation to reflectreasonable overall operationalneeds; and(b) limiting the extent of treeclearing to that required foreach stage and its ancillaryrequirements; and(c) other measures outlined inPolicy 6: Vegetation ClearingPractices and Policy 11:Rehabilitation of land to providekoala habitat.9. Covenants/community title/community managementstatementsCovenants or body corporate titlesfacilitate the continued co-existenceof people and wildlife and may be usedto include reductions, bans or curfewson domestic dogs, restrictions on theclearing of trees, and the regulation offencing or other infrasåure.Covenants or body corporate titles maybe used, for example, to achieve thefollowing:62

• Covenants or body corporate titlescan be used to retain habitat onproperties, regulate clearingpractices or to minimise hazards forkoalas arising from dogs, fencesand swimming pools; and• Covenants can be included in thecontract of sale for future residents(use statutory covenants) in relationto domestic animals, tree clearing,species for landscaping etc.Community management statementsmay provide an opportunity to informcovenants and community titleprocesses in achieving koalaconservation measures.10. Community educationand awarenessCommunity education and awarenessmay involve strategies targeted atspecific features or areas of residentialestates, or broader strategies thatare relevant to all residents of a localgovernment area. It may involve orinclude actions such as:(b) Neighbourhood educationDevelopments designed with koalasensitive development measuresshould incorporate educationstrategies to gain co-operation,perpetuate or achieve desiredoutcomes. These should include:• informing potential buyers that thedevelopment has been designed tobe sensitive to koalas and theirhabitat. Marketing may includereference to the significance ofthe area;• regularly reminding residents oftheir obligations under covenants/community titles, or best practiceinitiatives, such as (a) above; and• incorporating interpretitive signagethroughout the development toidentify koala habitat and/or koalahabitat trees.(a) Swimming pool designWhile koalas can swim, they canbecome trapped in swimming poolsand drown. To address this threat,swimming pool design should include:• having a rope of not less than30mm diameter that hangs in thepool, extending below water level,and is securely anchored outsidethe pool, or,• the pool is constructed with a‘beach’ type access where thepool water is level with part of thesurrounding pavement, allowingkoalas to move out of the pool; and• provide koala exclusion fencingaround the pool. While fencing isa mandatory requirement forswimming pools in Queensland,many fences may not necessarilyexclude koalas, particularly smalljuveniles.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 663

Policy 2:1. PurposeOffsets for netbenefit to koalasand koala habitatThis policy provides a framework anddirection for the use of environmentaloffsets to provide net benefit for koalaconservation for unavoidabledevelopment in high quality koalahabitat in south-east Queensland, asrequired by the koala conservationcriteria contained in the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006 and Management Program2006–2016.In situations where there is anunavoidable need for development ofcertain types to impact on the mostvital areas of koala habitat identified inthe SEQ Regional Plan, i.e. KoalaConservation Areas (KCAs) and KoalaSustainability Areas (KSAs), theprinciple of net benefit is used torequire actions that are aimed atsupporting an overall improvement inthe long-term viability of koalapopulations in the wild. Therequirement to provide a net benefitcan be met by using offsets to providean action (or actions) beneficial tokoalas and koala habitat such asplanting of cleared habitat or securingvegetated habitat that is under threatfrom development. The process forapplying net benefit offsets to koalasand koala habitat is detailed inAnnex 1. Annex 2 contains definitionsrelevant to this policy.This policy will be supported by aguideline to be developed by theEnvironmental Protection Agency toassist local authorities, proponentsand others involved in itsimplementation.2. What this policy applies to2.1 What development?This policy applies within a KCA or aKSA to the following developmentwhere it is not a developmentcommitment:• a material change of use under theIntegrated Planning Act forextractive industry within a KeyResource Area; or• community infrastructure within aKCA or a KSA that can demonstratean overriding need in the publicinterest for a location in a KCA orKSA.The policy will be applied whendevelopment applications areassessed, when communityinfrastructure is designated or asprovided for in memorandums ofunderstanding with relevant StateGovernment agencies.2.2 What impacts?This policy focuses on the unavoidableimpact of development proposals onthe quantity, quality and connectivityof koala habitat on the developmentsite, otherwise refered to as theresidual habitat impact or RHI.This policy does not require theprovision of offsets for non-habitatbased impacts such as vehicle relatedmortality.Any measure that avoids, reduces,mitigates or rectifies habitat impact onthe development site will reduce theRHI, regardless of whether it issomething the proponent would berequired to do anyway.2.3 What offsetting actions?Whilst the development impactsrequired to be offset under this policyare restricted to habitat loss, theoffsetting actions that can be taken todemonstrate net benefit are not.Preference is given to habitatprotection and restoration measures,but other actions, such as projects toreduce vehicle mortality on koalas, areable to count towards meeting therequired value of the offset package.3. Net benefit objectiveThe policy objective is thatdevelopment which must impact onimportant koala habitat requires a netbenefit large enough to ensure that iscontributes significantly to the recoveryof koalas in SEQ Region.The required value of the offsetpackage is 1.5 times the value of theRHI for that proportion of an offsetpackage that comprises high qualityhabitat measures and 2.5 for thebalance of the offset package. To beclassified as being of high quality forthe purposes of this policy, habitatmeasures must be in or adjoining thesame KCA, KSA, or contiguous KCA/KSA cluster as the development impactand must involve either protectinghabitat that can be cleared (without anobligation for replacement) under anexisting development approval orimproving habitat values throughrehabilitation of cleared areas.It is normal for offset values of greaterthan 1.0 to be required, even where thegoal is just to replace whatever islost. This takes into account the riskand uncertainty involved in providingbenefits through an offset. However inthis case, the 1.5 and 2.5 figures alsoreflects the high value of the koalahabitat to which they apply and theimportance of this habitat in protectingthe koala from localised or widespreadextinction in SEQ.The net benefit equation is therefore:Required value of offset package =(1.5 x Residual habitat impact xProportion of high quality habitatmeasures) + (2.5 x Residual habitatimpact x Proportion of non highquality habitat measures)64

4. Factors that influence thecalculation of RHI4.1 Quantity of habitat lostThe greater the area of habitat lost thegreater the RHI.4.2 Suitability of habitat lostThe more intact the habitat lost and thehigher its connectivity value in allowingkoalas to move between other habitatareas, the greater the RHI. For thepurposes of this policy these twofactors are combined as one, habitatsuitability. Habitat suitability falls intoone of three categories; low, mediumor high. The characteristics of each ofthese categories are detailed in Annex3. A suitability weighting of 0.4 isassigned to low suitability habitat, aweighting of 0.7 is assigned to mediumsuitability habitat and a weighting of1.0 is assigned to high suitabilityhabitat.All habitat within KCAs and KSAs isconsidered to provide connectivity.4.3 Duration of lossThe longer the duration of loss thehigher the RHI. Any loss of vegetationthat is to be re-established within threeyears of clearing to vegetation andlandform that will provide equivalenthabitat when regrown is onlyconsidered a temporary loss. It isincluded in the calculation of RHI witha duration weighting of 0.5, whereasa duration weighting of 1.0 is appliedto all permanent loss.4.4 Calculating RHIRHI is calculated as follows:RHI (in habitat units) = area of loss(in hectares) x suitability weightingx duration weighting.Where the habitat maintained by adevelopment is not homogenous interms of its suitability and/or theduration of loss, a separate calculationis required for all areas that have acommon suitability weighting andduration weighting. Where there ismore than one such calculation theyare then added together to determinea single RHI for the development.ExampleIf a development will require:• the permanent loss of 5 hectaresof low suitability habitat;• the permanent loss of 3 hectaresof high suitability habitat; and• the temporary loss of 4 hectareshigh suitability habitat;the RHI would be calculated asfollows:RHI = (5 x .4 x 1) + (3 x 1 x1) + (4 x 1 x .5) = 7 habitat units5 Factors that influence thevalue of a proposedoffset package5.1 Quantity of habitat gainedThe larger the area of intact habitat orrehabilitation offered the higher thevalue of the offset.5.2 Suitability of habitatgainedThe greater the intactness and valuefor koala movement of the habitat orrehabilitation offered as an offset, thegreater the value or suitability of thatoffset. The same suitability weightingscale as used for habitat loss is usedfor habitat gain.5.3 Existing habitat vsrehabilitationExisting vegetation that is alreadyeffective habitat is a more valuableoffset than rehabilitation because ofthe timelag involved for rehabilitationto become effective. Hence planting/rehabilitation/regrowth is assigned atimelag weighting of 0.5 whencalculating the value of the offset.Existing habitat is assigned a timelagweighting of 1.0.5.4 Location of habitat gainedThe prefered approach is for habitatmeasures supplied as offsets toprovide direct benefit to the impactedpopulation. However, recognising thismay not always be feasible, there isconsiderable flexibility allowed inwhere habitat measures are provided.In general, habitat measures at leastequal (in habitat units) to the RHI of theproject must be provided in areas thatwill provide direct benefit to theimpacted population.Habitat measures on lots within oradjoining the KCA or KSA (orcontiguous KCA/KSA cluster) in whichthe development is occurring aredeemed to be of direct benefit to thekoala population being impacted on.The balance of habitat measuresrequired may be provided elsewhere inthe SEQ region.A higher proportion of habitatmeasures may be accepted elsewherewhere it can be demonstrated that nofeasible options exist to provide thefull value of the RHI locally (i.e. withinor adjoining the KCA, KSA, orcontiguous KCA/KSA cluster).However this discretion is not availablewhere peer reviewed evidenceindicates that the resultant impact ofthe development will be critical to thelong term survival of koalas in the KCA,KSA or contiguous KCA/KSA cluster.5.5 Overall proportion ofhabitat measuresHabitat measures (irrespective oflocation) must comprise at least 50percent of the required value of theoffset package.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 665

5.6 Protection forhabitat measuresAs a general principle, habitat must beunder threat of losing its current valueto koalas to count towards an offsetunder this policy. However cleared landto be planted or otherwiserehabilitated as an offset measuredoes not have to be under threat.Remnant vegetation under theVegetation Management Act is notgenerally considered to be under threatfor the purposes of this policy and willnot count towards an offset unlessexisting development rights exist thatwould allow it to be cleared.The securing of habitat under threatwithin KCAs and KSAs, or therehabilitation of cleared sites withinthese areas, is encouraged as part ofoffset packages to consolidate andenhance the integrity of theseimportant habitat areas.Any habitat measure, whether intacthabitat or rehabilitation, must besecured permanently from loss to becounted as an offset. Protection maybe achieved either by:• a covenant under the Land Act 1994or the, Land Title Act 1994;• a conservation agreement underthe Nature Conservation Act;• inviting declaration of an area ofhigh conservation value under theVegetation Management Act (thatidentifies vegetation that cannot becleared);• gifting the area to the State(if acceptable to the EPA) or localgovernment for the purpose ofinclusion in the protected area orparkland estate.The conditions stated in theagreement or covenant must specifyresponsibilities for monitoring,maintenance and management ofthe site.Land does not necessarily need to bepurchased and retained by adeveloper, as long as a protectionagreement with the land’s owner andany necessary offset actions aresecured. For example, with third-partyagreement, an offset could consist ofrevegetation that is undertaken onprivate land owned by a third-party.The area would still need to beprotected in perpetuity with acovenant. Similarly, land may bepurchased, protected with a covenant,and re-sold for use compatible with theconditions of the covenant.It is acceptable for a measure thatmeets a separate offset requirementpertaining to the development inquestion (for example under theVegetation Management Act) to counttowards an offset provided underthis policy.5.7 Value of non-habitatmeasuresThe value of non-habitat measures willbe assessed on a case-by-case basis.As more experience is gained it will bepossible to quantify standard andtransparent values for the morecommon offsets in this category.The value assigned to a non-habitatmeasure will be based on the size andduration of its contribution to theconservation of koalas.A non-habitat measure must benefitkoalas in District A.5.8 Calculating the value of anoffset packageThe value of a proposed offset packageis assessed as follows:Value of offset package (in habitatunits) = (area of habitat gained (ha)x suitability weighting x timelagweighting) + value of non-habitatmeasures (in habitat units)Where habitat measures proposedas part of an offset package are nothomogenous in terms of theirsuitability and/or timelag, a separatecalculation is required for all areas thathave a common suitability and timelagweighting. Where there is more thanone such calculation they are thenadded together to calculate an overallvalue for habitat measures.This is then added to the value of anynon-habitat measures to determinethe full value of the offset package.6 Determining the acceptabilityof the offset packageIn general, an offset package will beacceptable if:• the total value of the proposedoffset package is at least equalto the required value of the offsetpackage (i.e. 1.5 times the assessedRHI of the development for thatproportion of the proposed offsetpackage comprising high qualityhabitat measures and 2.5 times theassessed RHI of the developmentfor that proportionof the proposed offset packagenot comprising high quality habitatmeasures).• the total value of habitat measuresproposed is no less than 50 percentof the required value of the offsetpackage; and• the value of habitat measures ofdirect benefit to the populationbeing impacted on is no lessthan the assessed RHI of thedevelopment, except whereotherwise provided within thispolicy (refer to 5.4 Location ofhabitat gained).A development to which this policyapplies has not complied with it unlessand until the means for future deliveryof the required value of the offsetpackage has been secured through anoffset agreement as required below.66

7. Implementation of this policyProject proponents will be responsiblefor proposing and then securingapproved offsets. Information such asthe EPA’s Koala Habitat SuitabilityMapping data may be used to assistproponents to determine appropriateland offset sites. The consideration ofoffsets will be on a case-by-case basisand linked to the IDAS process.Proponents may discuss offsetrequirements and proposed offsetpackages at pre-lodgement meetings.Information on the proposed offsetpackage must be provided with thedevelopment application. Anapplication without a proposed offsetpackage may be the subject of aninformation request.The EPA will be responsible forassessing and determining theacceptability of a proposed offsetpackage where it holds concurrencepowers for koala conservation inrelation to a development or asspecified in memorandums ofunderstanding with relevant StateGovernment agencies. It will do sobased on expert knowledge of thequality and connectivity of habitatmeasures and the value of non-habitatmeasures in abating threats to koalapopulations in District A.The relevant local authority will beresponsible for assessing anddetermining the suitability of aproposed offset package for otherdevelopments to which this policyapplies. The EPA will provide specialistadvice and support to local authoritiesto assist them undertake this function.The guideline refered to undersection 1 of this policy will also provideassistance to local authorities.The offset package must be secured viaan approved offset agreement betweenthe applicant and either the EPA orlocal authority, depending on whichis the assessment manager. The offsetagreement will consist of amemorandum of agreement forgovernment agencies and communitybodies and a deed of agreement forprivate developers. This offsetagreement will not form part of anydevelopment approval issued to theapplicant although it will be finalisedin conjunction with it. The offsetagreement will be separatelyenforceable in the event that therequired offset package is not deliveredand in the case of private developerswill generally utilise a financialguarantee.To remove any doubt, a developer isnot required to deliver the requiredoffset (e.g. purchase and securehabitat with a covenant) prior toreceiving development approval,however an offset agreement must bein place before development approvalis granted. The requirement to provideoffsetting measures under an offsetagreement will be conditional upondevelopment approval being granted.8. Koala offsets bankA koala offsets bank is beingdeveloped by the QueenslandGovernment. This bank does notcurrently exist. When it is in place,project proponents will have the choiceof utilising it or the process describedin section 7 above to discharge theirresponsibilities to provide net benefitoffsets. This policy will be updated tooutline how the bank will operate onceit is established.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 667

Annex 1 The process for applying net benefitoffsets to koala and koala habitatStep 1Assess whetherdevelopment isunavoidableYesNo loss of koalahabitatStep 2Obtain advice/assistanceMeet with EPA orlocal authorityNo (provide net benefit offset)Step 3Determinehabitat impact(a) Assess condition of habitat loss(b) Assess duration of habitat loss(c) Calculate residual habitat impactStep 4Determine offsetpackage(a) Determine appropriate habitat measures(b) Assess habitat gain (of proposed offset)(c) Calculate value of offset packageStep 5Otain offsetpackage approvalAssessmentof suitablility ofproposed offset packageby EPA or local authorityStep 6Approval ofdevelopmentapplicationSuitable (sign approved offset agreement)Development approvalgranted (subject to addressinglegislative requirements relevant todevelopment application68

Annex 2 GlossaryFor the specific purpose of this policythe following definitions apply:Doesn’t provide connectivity: Theimpacted area does not appear toenable koala movement betweenvegetated areas. The offset does notenable koala movement between areas.Duration weighting: A weightingrelated to the length of time adevelopment impacts on habitat that isused in the calculation of the RHI.Habitat measures: Offset measuresrelating to the securing of habitat or therehabilitation and securing of habitat.Habitat units: The measure used tounderpin the net benefit requirement.Habitat units are used in this policy toallow an objective, quantitativecomparison to be made between theimpact of a development and thevalue of offsets proposed to deliverthe net benefit.High Quality Habitat Measures:Habitat measures in or adjoining thesame KCA, KSA, or contiguous KCA/KSA cluster as the development impactand involving either the protection ofhabitat that can be cleared (without anobligation for replacement) under anexisting development approval orimproving habitat values throughrehabilitation of cleared areas.Intact habitat: Areas where 80 percentor more of the area is vegetated.Koala habitat:(a) a woodland where koalas currentlylive; or(b) a partially or completely clearedarea that is used by koalas to crossfrom one woodland where koalascurrently live to another woodlandwhere koalas currently live; or(c) a woodland where koalas do notcurrently live if the woodland:(i) primarily consists of koalahabitat trees; and(ii) is reasonably suitable to sustainkoalas.Non-habitat measures: Offsetmeasures other than those related tothe securing or rehabilitation of habitatthat abate threats to koalapopulations. These could includemeasures that reduce road mortality,dog attacks or disease.Offset agreement: An agreementbetween either the EPA or a localauthority and an applicant thatcreates an obligation to deliver anoffset package should a developmentbe approved.Offset package: The term used todescribe one or more measures usedto provide the net benefit to koalasrequired under this policy. It does notinclude on-site measures used toavoid, reduce, mitigate or rectify theeffects of a development.Partially cleared habitat: Areas wherebetween 20 percent and 80 percent ofthe area is vegetated.Predominantly cleared habitat: Lessthat 20 percent of the area is vegetated.Proportion of High Quality HabitatMeasures: Habitat unit value of HighQuality Habitat Measures/(RHI x 1.5)or; 1 - Proportion of non High QualityHabitat Measures.Proportion of Non High Quality HabitatMeasures: Habitat unit value of nonHigh Quality Habitat Measures/(RHI x2.5) or; 1 - Proportion of High QualityHabitat Measures.Provides connectivity: The area ofhabitat allows for koala movement.Therefore, an impact will inhibit koalamovement between vegetated areas;an offset will enable movementbetween vegetated areas.Rehabilitation: Planting or otherwisere-vegetating cleared areas, enhancingexisting vegetation on a site throughplanting or other measures.Required value of offset package: Aquantitative measure of what the valueof an offset package must be(measured in habitat units) to delivernet benefit under this policy.Residual Habitat Impact (RHI): Aquantitative measure (measured inhabitat units) of those impacts thatremain once all direct steps to avoid,reduce, mitigate and rectify the effectsof a development on the site have beenemployed. It includes both permanentand long term temporary impacts (suchas the loss of effective habitat whilereplanted areas regrow).Suitability weighting: A weightingrelated to the quality and connectivityvalue of habitat that is used in thecalculation of the RHI as well aswhen assessing the value ofproposed offsets.Timelag weighting: A weighting relatedto the length of time that it takes for ahabitat measure to provide effectivehabitat that is used when assessing thevalue of proposed habitat measures.Vegetation: Trees and other woodyplants. Excludes grass and otherground cover.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 669

Annex 3 Habitat suitabilitySuitability category Habitat Condition Suitability weightingHigh • Intact & provides connectivity 1.0Medium • Intact & doesn’t provide connectivity0.7• Partially cleared & provides connectivityLow • Predominantly cleared & provides connectivity 0.4Data available to assist indefining habitat condition• Determine the percentagevegetation coverage using eitherthe presence of remnant vegetationas identified in the RegionalEcosystem (RE) mapping, orpresence of the StatewideLandcover and Trees Study (SLATS)classes of ‘native vegetation’ or anyclass of ‘regrowth’. Where there isoverlap between the REs and SLATSthen the REs take precedence.• A PDF map of RE data is available atwww.epa.qld.gov.au\REMAPS.Enter either a lot plan or co-ordinatelocation.• SLATS data is available forpurchase on CD from any DNRMservice centre. For furtherinformation see the NRM websiteat http://www.nrm.qld.gov.au/products/cat_services.php?category=552&description=Digital+Vegetation+%28incl+SLATS%29+DataVegetation coverageThe diagrams below provide guidanceon patterns for different percentagecoverage of vegetation.Source: Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries 2004This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.au70

Policy 3:Determiningoverriding need inthe public interestPurposeThe purpose of this policy is to:• identify criteria relevant todetermining overriding need in thepublic interest for a location withinthe Koala Conservation and KoalaSustainability Areas.When this policy appliesThis policy only applies touncommitted community infrastructurelocated within Koala ConservationAreas and Koala Sustainability Areas.Relevant informationTo determine an overriding need in thepublic interest an applicant mustestablish:(a) that there is no suitable alternativelocation outside of a KoalaConservation Area or KoalaSustainability Area;(b) the overall social, economic andenvironmental benefits of thedevelopment outweigh:(i) any detrimental impact uponthe natural values of the site;(ii) conflicts with the desiredoutcomes of the SEQ RegionalPlan;(iii) conflicts with the NatureConservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016; and(c) whether the community wouldexperience significant adverseeconomic, social or environmentalimpacts if the developmentproposal were not to proceed.The following do not establish anoverriding need in the public interest:(a) activities or uses with relatively fewlocational requirements; or(b) interests in or options over the site;or(c) the site’s ownership or availability.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 671

Policy 4:PurposeKoala surveymethodology forsite assessment.The purpose of this policy is to:• identify an appropriate koala surveymethodology for assessing theabundance and distribution ofkoalas for use in siteassessment; and• assist with the interpretation ofresults.Ecological assessmentThe aim of an ecological assessmentis to determine the ecological featuresand processes of a site (through flora,fauna and vegetation community/regional ecosystem surveys).Assessment of koala habitat and theabundance and distribution of koalasshould occur concurrently with othersurveys so that there is an accurateand complete appraisal of the site.The methodology and results of thecomplete ecological assessment,information on the potential impactson the features and processes, andrecommended mitigation measuresshould be presented in an EcologicalAssessment Report.PersonnelPersonnel undertaking ecological siteassessments should have appropriatequalifications in an environmentalscience or related discipline, and/orprovide evidence of expertise in theidentification of flora, fauna andregional ecosystems. Personnel shouldalso have previous experience inconducting flora, fauna or ecologicalassessments, with skills in koaladetection and eucalypt identificationbeing desirable.Koala survey methodologyThe most accurate method ofdetermining habitat quality withrespect to koalas or other fauna isto determine if the animal is residingthere. Other indicators of good koalahabitat such as soil and foliageanalysis or species of tree presentare too conflicting to consider asreliable methods.Surveys of actual animal sightings,rather than the more indirect methodsof koala presence such as faecal pelletsurveys, scratch markings etc., shouldbe undertaken. Sites that are less than50ha can be searched in their entirety.Surveys should be conductedaccording to the method adopted byDique et al. 2003a:• The site should be divided intomanageable transects, the widthdependent on the number ofpeople conducting the search.• Observers (approximately five)spaced approximately 15m apartshould walk a fixed compassbearing, maintaining the same paceas adjacent searchers foroperational efficiency.• Observers should be equipped withbinoculars, compass, map and atleast one GPS unit per team.• Every tree in a transect should besearched and data collected for allkoalas sighted.• The observers at each end of atransect can use flagging tape atappropriate intervals to marktransect edges, thereby assuringthat the next transect is run off thelast one and that no area is leftunsearched.Sites greater than 50ha are consideredtoo large to completely search andinstead require the use of a samplingstrategy. The inherent idea of samplingis to use a reliable samplingmethodology in areas that cannot beentirely searched to get an estimateof the density of animals on the site.Transects should be uniformlypositioned across the site at a constantcompass bearing in an effort to samplethe site in as unbiased a manner aspossible. This may include positioningthe direction of the transects so as tonot follow entire creek lines or gulliesor ridge tops, but to have transectsstart on a ridge top and continuethrough gullies and across creek linesin an effort to survey a cross sectionof each vegetation/habitat type.Data collectionKoala surveys may need to be repeatedto get an accurate representation ofkoala distribution and density acrossthe site.The following information pertainingto each koala sighting should becollected:• Age class: Adult, sub-adult (2–4kg)or juvenile (less than one year old,less than 2kg, not yetindependent).• Reproductive status: The presenceof a pouch young, back young, orno young associated with an adultfemale.• Health status: Healthy, or showingsigns of Chlamydia such as cystitis(wet, stained bottom) and/orconjuncitivis (red or swollen eyesdischarging pus), or other indicatorsof poor health such as dischargesfrom nose or mouth, wasted oremaciated appearance etc.• Tree species that the koala issighted in: The collection of fruitand a leaf sample from trees willassist in the identification ofunknown species by a botanist orwith the use of reference material.• Koala location: Using a map and/orGPS unit, the location of each koalashould be plotted on a map to gainan overall distribution of koalas onthe site.72

A description of the habitat used bykoalas should be provided. Habitatuse can be determined through directobservations of animals andsupplemented with indirect meansusing signs of past koala occupation(scratches or faecal pellets).Interpretation of resultsResident or transient animals• Adult koalas will likely bepermanent residents of the site.Very few adult animals will dispersefrom an undisturbed area.• Sub-adult animals may betemporary residents of the siteas this group have a high dispersalprobability.• Juvenile animals are usuallysighted in association with anadult female, and will remain onsite until sub-adult.Health of the population• A healthy population should haveless than 20 percent Chlamydiarelated disease.• A high incidence of cystitis willresult in a lower breeding rate inthe population.• Habitat loss and disturbance willlikely increase the expression ofdisease in a koala population.Presence and location ofkoala habitat• The presence of koalas on a siteusually indicates the presence ofkoala habitat.• If koalas were distributed in auniform pattern across the site,then the entire site is being utilisedby these animals, and anyproposed development shouldendeavour to minimise thedisturbance to this habitat.• If a patchy distribution of koalaswas recorded, it is necessary todetermine what features of the sitecan account for this. The mainfactor contributing to a patchydistribution of koalas will be theresult of a change in vegetation typefrom one area to the other. Thisshould be adequately described andcategorised as part of the vegetationsurvey component of the ecologicalassessment and may includechanges in the distribution of treespecies, tree age, tree density orchanges to the geographicalcharacteristics of the area.• The absence of koalas on a sitedoes not stop it from beingimportant to local koalapopulations. Sites may not containany koalas at the time of the survey,but other indicators of koala usesuch as faecal pellets and scratchmarks would indicate that koalasare using the area, whether it be aportion of a larger home range, or asa habitat link to adjacent areas.Additional InformationPermitsSpecific requirements for scientificpurposes permits for wildlife surveyscan be obtained from the EPA. Contactecoaccess on 1300 368 326 or visitwww.epa.qld.gov.auKoala survey dataLocal governments may maintain adatabase of koala and other faunasightings gained from ecologicalassessments. Site specific surveyinformation should be provided tolocal government in an electronicformat to assist in the maintenanceof this database. Similarly, localgovernment data may be disseminatedto the EPA in a suitable format forinclusion in its databases.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 673

Policy 5:PurposeRequirements forthe translocationand release ofkoalasThe purpose of this policy is to:• identify instances wheretranslocation will be considered;• identify the requirements andprocedures for the translocationand release of koalas; and• define release procedures fortranslocated animals and koalasunder a rehabilitation permit.TranslocationApproval for translocationTranslocation of koalas will beconsidered only for scientific purposes,such as securing the viability of apopulation. Considerable scientificevidence is required to demonstratethe need for translocation.Translocation will not be consideredfor non-scientific endeavours, suchas the removal of animals from landundergoing development. Refer toPolicy 6: Vegetation clearing practicesin this instance. Unapprovedtranslocation constitutes an offenceunder the Nature Conservation Act1992.Introduction to new areasTranslocation of koalas into areasoutside of their natural range isprohibited and constitutes an offenceunder the Nature Conservation Act.No approvals will be given to introducekoalas to new areas or areas outsidetheir known natural range.Re-introduction and re-stockingTranslocation for the purpose ofre-introduction or re-stockingpurposes must:• be carried out under an approvedscientific purposes permit;• demonstrate that it is necessary forthe viability of regional koalapopulations;• follow the National KoalaConservation Strategy fortranslocations of koalas in Australia(ANZECC 1998), and the releaseprocedures outlined in this policy;• be supported by research intopopulation status and dynamicsdemonstrating the need for such aprogram. The research mustdemonstrate that populationviability in the target area is sothreatened that it may lead tosevere population decline andprobable extinction, and that noother options are available toaddress this. The research mustdemonstrate that the habitat in thetarget area is suitable to support aviable koala population and thatsuch re-introduction will notadversely impact on residentkoalas or other species occupyingthat habitat. Research into thegenetic make-up of the sourceanimals must show that they aresuitable animals for re-introductionor re-stocking in the target area,and, conversely that the programwill not lead to adverse outcomesthrough the introduction of highlydivergent genotypes;• demonstrate that the population isnot likely to decline for otherreasons; and• include ongoing monitoring todemonstrate the adjustment of thekoalas to their new habitat and anyoccurrence of impacts on otherspecies.Augmentation of genetic variationTranslocation for genetic augmentationpurposes must:• be conducted under an approvedscientific purposes permit;• follow the procedures outlined inthe National Koala ConservationStrategy for translocations of koalasin Australia (ANZECC 1998), and therelease procedures outlined in thispolicy;• be supported by research intopopulation genetics demonstratingthe need for such a program andthat no other options (e.g. assistedreproductive technologies) areavailable to address this. Theresearch must demonstrate thatgenetic variation in the target areais so low that it may affect fitnessand lead to population decline.Research into the genetics of thesource animals must show thatthey are suitable animals foraugmentation of genetic variationin the target area, and, converselythat the program will not lead toadverse outcomes through theintroduction of highly divergentgenotypes;• demonstrate that it is necessary forthe viability of the population; and• demonstrate that the populationis not likely to decline for otherreasons.Translocation to otherexisting habitatThe translocation of koalas to otherexisting habitat is prohibited,except under:• an approved scientific purposespermit; or• approved recovery program.Any application for a scientificpurposes permit must be supported bya minimum three-year research andmonitoring program. The elements ofthe research and monitoring programmust include:• monitoring the status of the animalbefore and after translocation,including health and reproductivestatus, movement patterns andhabitat use; and• determining the impacts oftranslocation on koala populationsas well as other wildlife andhabitats at the release site.74

Release procedures —translocated koalasRelease of animals for translocationpurposes must be managed to improvetheir chances of survival. Proceduresmust include the following:• Timing of the release of animalsmust be considered carefully, withrelease preferably taking place inthe non-breeding season betweenMarch and June.• Detailed surveys should beundertaken of koala populations atthe release site to determinepreferred habitat, and usage of thearea by koala populations.• Soft release methods should beused, where animals are kept inhousing on site (preferably in anopen air, semi-natural enclosuresurrounding a small number oftrees on the site) andsupplemented with local leaf for atleast two weeks while theircondition is monitored prior torelease.• Post-release animal monitoringshould be conducted to determinesurvival, health and reproductivestatus and impacts on habitat atthe release site.Relocation to other existinghabitat — rehabilitated koalasA koala kept under a rehabilitationpermit must be returned to ‘anappropriate natural habitat’ unless thechief executive (EPA) directs otherwise(Nature Conservation Regulation 1994).total loss of habitat, authorisationmust be obtained from the EPA forrelease at another site. Alternativerelease sites must match the habitat atthe site the animal came from andinclude extensive forested areas or aconnection to such areas. The releasesite must be in the general district thatthe koala originated from.Hand-reared animals with no previousexperience of the capture site due tobeing captured or rescued at a veryyoung age, must be released withinfive kilometres of the capture site tominimise the impact of accumulatedloss of individuals in the local area.Release procedures —rehabilitated koalasRelease of rehabilitated koalas mustfollow the procedures for releaseoutlined in the Code of Practice: Care oforphaned, sick or injured protectedanimals and be carried out by EPA staffor volunteers affiliated with the MoggillKoala Hospital, or by staff or volunteersof other private koala hospitals (referto Policy 9: Requirements for privatekoala hospitals).Additional InformationPermitsSpecific information and requirementsrelating to permits issued under theNature Conservation Act 1992 can beobtained from the EPA. Contactecoaccess on 1300 368 326 or visitwww.epa.qld.gov.auFor a koala, an appropriate naturalhabitat is as close as practical to theoriginal place of capture. This providesthe best prospects for the koala’ssurvival. Release sites should be withinone kilometre of the capture site, butno greater than five kilometres from thecapture site.If a suitable location at or near thecapture site is not possible due to aThis policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 675

Policy 6:PurposeVegetation clearingpracticesThe purpose of this policy is to:• identify when and where thereis a requirement for sequentialvegetation clearing and thepresence of a koala spotter;• outline best practice approachesfor clearing of vegetation wherekoalas may be present.BackgroundFelling trees within koala habitat canresult in the death of, or serious injuryto koalas that are present in thosetrees or in trees adjacent to thosetrees being cleared.Applicability of the policyThis policy is applicable to allvegetation clearing occurring withinKoala Districts A and B as prescribedby the Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006.RequirementsThe Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 containsprovisions relating to how koalahabitat trees are to be cleared in KoalaDistricts A and B to ensure against theinjury of resident koalas.It is a requirement of a personauthorised to fell trees, or thatperson’s delegate, to ensure allclearing of koala habitat trees inKoala District A and B is undertakenusing a sequential clearing technique.In addition, all koala habitat treesbeing cleared in a koala habitat areawithin District A must be in thepresence of a koala spotter.Under Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 sequentialclearing means:(1) clearing of trees is carried out in away that ensures koalas living in ornear the area being cleared (theclearing site) have enough time tomove out of the clearing sitewithout human intervention,including in particular, for aclearing site with an area of morethan 6ha, by:(a) carrying out the clearing instages; and(b) ensuring not more than thefollowing is cleared in anyone stage:(i) for a clearing site with an areaof 6ha or less—50 percent ofthe site’s area;(ii) for a clearing site with an areaof more than 6ha—3ha or3 percent of the site’sarea, whichever is thegreater; and(c) ensuring that between eachstage there is at least oneperiod of 12 hours that startsat 6p.m. on a day and ends at6a.m. on the following day,during which no trees arecleared on the site; and(2) clearing of trees is carried out in away that ensures, while the clearingis being carried out, appropriatehabitat links are maintained withinthe clearing site and between thesite and its adjacent areas, to allowkoalas living on the site to moveout of the site; and(3) no tree in which a koala is present,and no tree with a crownoverlapping a tree in which a koalais present, is cleared.A koala spotter means a person whohas demonstrated experience inlocating koalas in koala habitats orconducting fauna surveys.Prior to the commencement of, andduring felling operations, it is theresponsibility of the koala spotter toidentify trees in which a koala ispresent and any trees where theircrown overlaps trees in which a koala ispresent and convey this information tothe person(s) conducting the clearing.Best practice approachesThe EPA encourages a best practiceapproach to all vegetation clearingwhere koalas may be present to ensureinjury or harm of potentially residentkoalas is limited to the greatestpossible extent.Sequential clearingSequential clearing can be achieved bya variety of means. Many of theseapproaches will be site specific.However, the following methods arerecommended:(1) The thinning, or partial removal, ofvegetation on a site that has aknown koala presence isrecommended, at least for theinitial stage of clearing. Thisprovides the opportunity for koalasutilising the site to occupy some oftheir current home range and allowanimals an extended period ofadjustment to the clearing. This canbe achieved, particularly at futureresidential development sites, by:(a) the sequential thinning of treesin each progressive stage ofdevelopment, where the densityof vegetation on the site isreduced (by approximately 50 to70 percent), the remainder ofwhich is retained throughoutthe site and is removed onlywhen required to build on anindividual lot;(b) timing the thinning so that aminimum of one month of nodisturbance is achieved afterthinning and before lots aredeveloped; andstaging the thinning so thatthere is compliance with thesequential clearing provisionsof the Nature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan 2006.76

(2) The direction of sequential clearingshould be away from threateningprocesses or hostile environments,and towards any retainedvegetation or habitat links,ensuring:(a) koalas are not pressured,through loss of habitat, to crossroads or move throughdeveloped or disturbed areas,such as residential areas orareas that require movement ofgreater than 100m over clearedground to reach suitablehabitat;(b) koalas are not left occupying an‘island’ of habitat betweenhostile environments, such as aroad and a cleared area, unlessthere are no other more suitablehabitat areas in which to directkoalas; and(c) koalas can safely leave the siteof clearing and relocate toadjacent habitat.Koala spotters(1) It is recognised that koalas aredistributed widely across thelandscape and are often found inareas outside designated koalahabitat areas. This may includeKoala Living Areas and areas thatare not mapped as koala habitat. Itis strongly recommended that, as abest practice approach, a koalaspotter be engaged at any siteswhere there is a known, or likely,koala presence.(2) It is the responsibility of the personauthorised to fell trees, or thatperson’s delegate, to appoint akoala spotter prior to thecommencement of clearingoperations.A person is likely to be suitablyqualified as a koala spotter ifthey have:• worked with koalas in theirnatural habitat — by conductingkoala surveys, koalamonitoring, or involved withkoala rescue, for example; or• experience in fauna surveysor fauna spotting in koalahabitat areas.(3) A koala spotter is not to be involvedin the clearing of vegetation whilethey are responsible for identifyingkoalas present on the site.Koalas can be difficult to see, evento the trained eye, and particularlywhen resting in the tops of tall leafytrees. Koalas can also jump fromone tree to another. Consequently,continual surveillance of koalaspresent on the site is likely to berequired during clearing operationsto ensure against accidentallyfelling or interfering with a tree thathas a resident koala.(4) A koala spotter is not to physicallymove koalas from a tree in whichthey are residing to anotherlocation. Each tree identified by thekoala spotter as being a risk tokoalas if felled, should not befelled, damaged or interfered withuntil the koala has moved from thefelling site of its own volition.Granting clearing approvalsThe clearing of vegetation may requirean approval under the IntegratedPlanning Act (schedule 8), a localgovernment planning scheme, or alocal government local law.Any approval associated with theclearing of vegetation within Districts Aand B should be given in considerationof the potential presence of koalas.Where appropriate, it is recommendedto either directly include conditions,based on the practices set out in thispolicy, or provide additionalinformation with any approvalregarding the requirements under theNature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 for the clearingof koala habitat trees.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 677

Policy 7:PurposeKoala habitatassessmentand mappingThe purpose of this policy is to:• provide direction to localgovernments on koala habitatassessment and mapping;• outline the methodology for koalahabitat assessment and mapping;• achieve consistency in theidentification of koala habitat; and• identify the requirements andprocess for obtaining endorsementof a local government koala habitatmap.BackgroundIn the South East QueenslandBioregion, the koala has been listed asa vulnerable species under the NatureConservation Act. The StateGovernment, through the SEQ RegionalPlan and Koala Plan, has mapped theknown important koala areas in theSouth East Queensland region. Theseareas have been designated as KoalaHabitat Areas and consist of KoalaConservation Areas, KoalaSustainability Areas and UrbanKoala Areas.In order to halt the significant declinein koala populations and reduce thehigh level of threats it is imperative toprotect and restore a diversity of koalahabitats and populations throughoutthe region. For this reason, localgovernment is encouraged to identifyand map koala habitat, and includeKoala Habitat Areas within theirplanning schemes.While koala habitat is generallyregarded as bushland or a type offorest/woodland habitat, systematicfield surveys, radio-tracking and largenumbers of incidental records indicatethat koalas are also utilising otherenvironments, such as urban andagricultural areas to breed andestablish home ranges. While theconservation value of forested areaswith a high density of koalas isobvious, lower density, fragmented, ordeveloped habitats are also important,particularly as such areas may providehabitat links and allow gene-flow,home range movements or dispersalof koalas across the landscape.Koalas have little difficulty traversingopen ground, therefore koala habitatareas may include cleared areas. Thesecleared areas are important inmaintaining landscape permeabilityand in providing day-to-day movementand dispersal habitat. Consequently,potential habitat may include cleared,regrowth as well as remnant vegetationwithin a range of urban, rural andagricultural environments.Koala habitat assessment andmapping should involve the followingseries of steps:A. Koala habitat assessment andmapping(1) estimation of koala distribution andabundance;(2) koala habitat assessment andmapping; and(3) preparation of a habitatassessment and mapping study;B. Koala Habitat Areaclassification and statuatoryprocesses(4) classification of Koala HabitatAreas and Koala Living Areas;(5) State Government endorsement oflocal government koala habitatmap; and(6) incorporation of koala habitatmapping into planning schemeprocesses.A. Koala habitat assessment andmapping1. Estimation of koala distributionand abundanceThe procedure for estimating koaladistribution and abundance involves:(a) obtaining vegetation mapping data;(b) vegetation stratification;(c) determining survey sites;(d) koala survey methodology;(e) koala ecology and populationdynamics (optional); and(f) population monitoring (optional).(a) Obtaining vegetationmapping dataVegetation mapping data should beobtained to assist in the delineation orstratification of vegetation/habitattypes. This data may include regionalecosystem vegetation mapping,Statewide Landcover and Trees Study(SLATS) data (including satelliteimagery, landcover mapping, landcoverchange reports, Foliage ProjectiveCover (FPC) mapping), and any otherrelevant mapping including thatundertaken by the local government.(b) Vegetation stratificationVegetation mapping data should beused to determine the broadvegetation types across the localgovernment area. These broadvegetation types will assist indetermining how the area will bestratified prior to conducting koalasurveys. Vegetation types that are notgenerally known to support koalas,such as rainforest and pine forestplantations, should be delineated butdo not need to be surveyed. However,areas that may support lower densitiesof koalas such as some urban areasshould be delineated and surveyed.Two possible approaches to vegetationstratification may include a generallandcover approach, or a more refinedregional ecosystem approach.78

General landcover approachThe general landcover approach isbased on the delineation of broadlandcover/land use to define strata.This approach is more suited to an areathat has a high diversity of regionalecosystems or heterogeneity andwhere it would be difficult to obtainenough samples to achieve statisticalsignificance.For this approach, suggested stratamay include the following (sourcedfrom Dique et al. 2004):(1) Bushland• contiguous or large areas of nativevegetation that may includeremnant and non-remnant/regrowth containing many eucalyptspecies used by koalas for foodand shelter; and• patches generally largerthan 100ha.(2) Remnant bushland 6• fragmented native vegetation whichmay include remnant and nonremnant/regrowthcontainingeucalypt species that are used bykoalas for food shelter and ashabitat links; and• patches generally 10ha–100ha.(3) Urban• includes residential development,schools and small parks;• important in maintaining landscapepermeability and in providing dayto-daymovement and dispersalhabitat as well as opportunities forindividual and genetic movementacross habitat zones; and• scattered trees, grass and nativevegetation patches less than 10hain the urban zone.(4) Rural• isolated patches of trees, clumps,scattered or individual trees oftenwith an open understorey; and• areas utilised for grazing orcropping.Refined regional ecosystem approachA more refined approach to theidentification of strata involves the useof regional ecosystems. This approachcould be used to sample sub-regionsor individual regional ecosystems.It is particularly suited to areas whichhave fewer regional ecosystems and/or a less complex landscape, therebymaking it possible to obtainrepresentative samples at a highenough sampling intensity withineach regional ecosystem.(c) Determining survey sitesFor each stratum determine thelocation and number of survey sites.The number of survey sites will dependon the diversity of regional ecosystemsand landforms. For each stratification,ensure survey sites are replicated asuitable number of times; randomlylocated within each stratum; andspread geographically across theregion. The number of survey sitesmust representatively sample boththe landscape and a proportion of thekoala population and ideally needsto be able to detect at least a 20–25percent change in the population.For example, surveys in the KoalaCoast were conducted using thegeneral approach due to the area’sheterogeneity. The survey sitesrepresented eight percent of the KoalaCoast study area and representativelysampled 16 percent of the koalapopulation. These survey estimateswould be able to detect a 20 percentchange in koala abundance if thesurveys were repeated (Dique et al.2004).In general, sampling more survey siteswithin a study area will increase theaccuracy of abundance estimates,while repeated surveys at higher koaladensity sites will increase the precisionof density estimates for those sites(Caughley & Sinclair 1994). Thereforeit may be necessary to review thesampling as surveys progress andcompare the densities and variance.If the variance is larger than 20–25percent, then further subdivision ofthe strata should be considered withthe aim of reducing the variance withinstrata. Consequently the number ofsites needs to be a compromisebetween accuracy and logisticalconstraints (e.g. time, money, effortetc.).Survey site planningDetermine the proportion of the site tobe surveyed. This will depend on thekoala density, distribution andrequired survey precision as well astime and logistical restraints. Studiesin the Koala Coast suggest that higherdensity sites require greater samplingintensity than low density sites tomaintain a similar level of precision.Consequently, a minimum of 30percent of each site was sampled inbushland and remnant bushland.Sites that are less than 50ha can besearched in their entirety. Urban sitesemployed total counts with 100 percentof the site surveyed (Dique et al. 2001).Determine the positioning of transectson the site. Transects should beuniformly positioned across the siteat a constant compass bearing in aneffort to sample the diversity of thesite in an unbiased manner. This mayinclude positioning the direction ofthe transects so as to not follow entirecreek lines, gullies or ridge tops, butto survey a cross section of eachvegetation/habitat type.6Remnant bushland, as used here, has no reference to the meaning of ‘remnant’ under the Vegetation Management Act 1999.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 679

Survey personnelPersonnel should have previousexperience or expertise in conductingfauna, flora or ecological assessmentsof a site. Skills in koala detection andeucalypt identification are essential.Evidence of qualifications andexperience should form part of thecompleted Koala Habitat Assessmentand Mapping Study.(d) Koala survey methodologyKoala surveys should be undertakenusing scientifically acceptedmethodologies, such as strip transect,line transect, total counts or othermethods as appropriate.South East Queensland BioregionSurveys targeting the sighting of actualanimals must be undertaken, ratherthan the indirect or index methods ofestimating koala abundance such asfaecal pellet surveys, or scratchmarkings etc. While an index may beuseful in determining relativeabundance or in monitoring populationsover time, an estimate of absoluteabundance is also needed. By thenestablishing the relationship betweenthe index and actual koala population,the index can be calibrated for use asan indicator of absolute abundance.General koala survey methodologiesfor conducting strip transect, linetransect and total counts described inDique et al. (2003a , 2004) andaspects of survey accuracy, precisionand variance are described in Dique etal. (2001). It is recommended thatthese papers be used as a guide toconducting koala surveys.• Surveys are best undertaken duringthe months of August andSeptember as this allows the easydetection of breeding females dueto the presence of young on theirbacks (back young). Small youngare difficult to detect while still inthe pouch unless the mother ishandled and the pouch inspected.The next preferred survey period isMarch and April when the youngare generally independent of theirmother.• For each survey site estimate thedensity of the number ofindependent koalas detected(not including dependent young)for each hectare of bushlandsearched.A general methodology for conductinga strip transect survey would include:• trained observers (usually five), arespaced 15m apart, and walk a fixedbearing, searching all trees forkoalas within each 60m transect;• any koalas detected outside theboundaries of the transects are notincluded in the analysis of density;• note koala scats, scratchings orother evidence, such as skullswithin (and outside) the transect.These data can be used tosupplement those of the survey anddetermine koala ‘presence’ andactual habitat utilisation. If nokoalas are sighted and there is noother evidence of koalas, thisshould also be recorded. However itis not possible to determine ifkoalas are absent from a sitewithout repeated surveys over aperiod of years; and• determine koala sightability andestimate sightability factors foreach stratum, depending on thedensity of the vegetation and theexperience and expertise of theobservers. Koalas are a crypticspecies and often difficult to detectduring surveys. Koala surveys tendto under-estimate koala densitybecause koalas may remain unseenand consequently mark–resight orother studies are necessary toestimate koala sightability and tocalculate a correction factor. Theoverall koala abundance can thenbe adjusted accordingly. Studies inthe Koala Coast using radiocollaredkoalas suggest 16 percentof koalas are not detected byexperts (Dique et al. 2001). Otherstudies in the region have foundthat the proportion of koalasmissed during bushland surveysmay be slightly higher at 29 percent(Hasegawa,1995).The following data should be collectedfor each koala sighted:1. Koala location: Using a map and/orGPS unit, the location of each koalashould be plotted on a map to gainan overall distribution of koalas onthe site;2. Description of the tree in whichthey were sighted: Tree species,tree height, koala height in tree,Diameter at Breast Height (DBH)and tree crown diameter;3. Age class: Adult, sub-adult (approx.2–4kg, not yet breeding) or juvenile(less than 1 year old, less thanapprox. 2kg, not yet independent);4. Reproductive status: The presenceor absence of young; and5. Health status: Healthy, or showingsigns of Chlamydia or otherindicators of poor health such asdischarges from nose/mouth,wasted/emaciated inappearance etc.Areas of extremely low koaladensity outside the South EastQueensland BioregionIn areas of extremely low density, theindirect or index methods of estimatingkoala abundance may be moreappropriate considering the largeamount of effort that may be requiredto locate enough animals to get usabledata. The reliability of survey resultsmay also be compromised in habitatthat reduces the sightability ofanimals, such as tall complex layeredforests. In these instances, surveymethods should be discussed with theEPA to ensure scientific rigour andappropriateness.80

(e) Koala ecology and populationdynamics studies (optional)It is recommended that wherepossible, detailed koala ecology andpopulation dynamics are studied incollaboration with universities or otherresearch bodies (refer to Researchand monitoring section).Information on ecology and populationdynamics is important to themanagement of the koala and toensure the long-term viability ofpopulations. The collection of baselinehabitat and population informationduring koala surveys provides animportant monitoring tool and allowsfor an assessment of managementstrategies over time.(f) Population monitoringIn order to assess the success ofconservation and managementmeasures it is recommended that,subject to available resources,monitoring of habitat and koalapopulations is undertaken as partof a broader koala research program.Effective monitoring requires theestablishment of performance targetsand indicators. Subsequentassessment of habitat and repetitionof koala surveys is a requirement.It is only through the process ofrepeated surveying that populationchange, true absence of koalas, orsuccess of management measurescan be determined.Zone A designates areas with thehighest koala habitat values and/ordensities, Zone B — medium habitatvalues and/or densities, and C — lowerhabitat values and/or densities etc.Depending on the range of habitatvalues or known koala densities withina study area, additional designationsmay be used (e.g. E, F, or G).These broad zone designations arethen applied to each stratum to formthe koala habitat assessment matrix.The matrix is a ranking of koala habitatacross the study area. An example ofsuch a ranking process, includingdescriptions, is set out in Table 13.In this example, when the ‘A’ habitatzone is applied to the bushland,bushland remnant and urban strata,the result is 1A, 2A and 3A categories.These categories correspond to thebest koala habitat and/or densitieswithin each stratum. This process isrepeated with all habitat zones to yielda matrix of habitat values.(2) Koala habitat assessmentand mappingKoala habitat assessment matrixThe results of the koala survey andhabitat assessment will provide anindication of the distribution andabundance of koalas and koala habitatwithin each stratum. The results willalso guide the subdivision of the stratainto broad zones for the ranking ofkoala habitat (e.g. A, B, C, D).Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 681

Table 13Koala habitat assessment matrixExample table onlyKoala habitat zoneA HabitatHighest koalaconservation valueHighest koala habitatvalues and/or koaladensities relative tostudy areaB HabitatMedium–high koalaconservation valueGenerally medium–high koala habitatvalues and/or koaladensitiesC HabitatLow–mediumconservation valueGenerally low–mediumkoala habitat valuesand/or koala densitiesLandscape stratumBushland Remnant bushland Rural Urban1AVery large areas ofmostly unfragmentedbushland. Very largepatch sizes. Generallylow intensity humanhabitation. Highestkoala habitat valuesand/or highest koaladensities withinstratum.1BLarge bushland areaswith limitedfragmentation.Relatively low intensityhuman habitation.Medium–high habitatvalue and/or koaladensities.1CAreas of relativelyintact bushland. Areasof generally low–medium quality koalahabitat and/or koaladensities.2AFragmented bushlandwith moderate sizedpatches and lowintensity humanhabitation. Goodhabitat and/or habitatlinks. Highest koalahabitat values and/orhighest koala densitieswithin stratum.2BFragmented bushlandpatches. Smaller sizedpatches with obviousfragmentation andhuman habitation.Provides habitat and/or habitat links.Medium koala habitatvalue and/or koaladensities.2CFragmented bushlandpatches that provideimportant habitat linksin a highly modifiedlandscape. Lowerkoala habitat valuesand/or koaladensities.3ARural or agriculturalareas with scatteredpatches or clumps ofvegetation, often withan open understorey.Provides habitat andhabitat linkagesbetween importantbushland or remnantbushland areas.May also be located onalluvial flats withimportant clumps ofEucalyptustereticornis.3BRural or agriculturalareas with patches,clumps or scatteredindividual trees, oftenan open understorey.May or may notprovide habitat andhabitat linkagesbetween importantbushland or remnantbushland area. Clumpsor patches are locallyimportant.3CRural or agriculturalareas with scatteredindividual trees withthe occasional patchor clump.Provides limitedhabitat linkagebetween importantbushland or remnantbushland areas.4AAreas of urbandevelopment withimportant scatteredeucalypts in houselots, parks and creeklines. Some importantsmall patches ofbushland. Highconservation valuebecause this zonesustains a breedingpopulation of koalasthat maintain homeranges in the area.Highest koala habitatvalues and/or koaladensities within urbanstratum.4BAreas of urbandevelopment withscattered eucalypts inhouse lots, parks andcreek lines. Breedingpopulations present.Provides someopportunities forindividual and geneticmovement acrosshabitat zones. Mediumurban koala habitatvalue or densities.4CAreas of urbandevelopment withsome eucalypts inhouse lots, parks andcreek. Lower urbankoala habitat value ordensities due to itsrelative isolation fromother koalapopulations. Humaninducedkoalamortality is asignificant issue in thiszone.82

Table 13Koala habitat assessment matrixExample table only (cont)Koala habitat zoneD HabitatArea of lowerconservation valueGenerally lower koalahabitat values and/orkoala densitiesLandscape stratumBushland Remnant bushland Rural Urban1DSmaller areas ofrelatively intactbushland. Areas ofgenerally lower qualitykoala habitat and/orlower koala densities.2DHighly fragmentedbushland patches thatprovided habitat linksin a very highlymodified landscape.Lower koala habitatvalues and/or koaladensities.3DRural or agriculturalareas with scatteredindividual trees.Provides no or verylimited habitat linkagebetween importantbushland and/orremnant bushlandareas.4DAreas of urbandevelopment withsome eucalypts inhouse lots, parks andcreek. Lower urbankoala habitat valueand/or densities dueto relative isolationfrom other koalapopulations.Generallynot presentAreas with no orlimited koala habitatvalues and/ordensities.Intensely urbanised or agricultural areas where koalas are not known to be present or generally donot occur. May also include some rainforest regional ecosystems in which koalas generally do notoccur or that are only used infrequently.Some areas may function as valuable links or dispersal/movement areas.Koala habitat assessment mapThe results of the koala habitatassessment matrix can now be used tospatially reflect the ranked koalahabitat across the study area on a noncadastralbasis. This map is referred toas a koala habitat assessment map.(3) Habitat assessment andmapping studyUpon finalisation of the (1) estimate ofkoala distribution and abundance and(2) habitat assessment and mapping,the results should be combined to forma complete habitat assessment andmapping study. The study, in the formof a report should, as a minimum,comprise:(a) qualifications and experience ofthose undertaking the koala habitatassessment and mapping;(b) stratification methodology, surveymethodology and results; and(c) koala habitat assessment matrixand koala habitat assessment map.The complete habitat assessment andmapping study will provide the basisfor the endorsement by the State, ofthe local government koalahabitat map.B. Koala Habitat Areaclassification(4) Classification of Koala HabitatAreas and Koala Living AreasSection B relates to Koala District A,however it does not prevent localgovernments within Koala Districts Band C from undertaking a similarprocess.The aim of classifying Koala HabitatAreas is to identify statutory areas forreflection within local governmentplanning schemes. These areas consistof Koala Conservation Areas, KoalaSustainability Areas and Urban KoalaAreas. Koala Living Areas, which arenon-statutory areas, may also beidentified if a local governmentchooses to do so, however will not bereflected within a local governmentplanning scheme.Categorising koala habitat into KoalaHabitat Areas and Koala Living Areas isa combined desktop and spatialplanning exercise resulting in acadastrally-based local governmentkoala habitat map.Koala Habitat Areas and Koala LivingAreas can be identified using thefollowing information:• koala habitat zones obtained fromthe koala habitat assessmentmatrix (refer to Table 13);• statutory, habitat and locationalcharacteristics (refer to Table 14);• local government planning scheme(i.e. zoning map or equivalent) orother relevant planning instrument(i.e. local growth managementstrategy); and• SEQ Regional Plan land usecategories and objectives.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 683

Table 14Koala Habitat AreasKoala Conservation Area Koala Sustainability Area Urban Koala Area Koala Living AreaStatutory, Habitat and Locational Characteristics• Statutory intent• Located within theRegional Landscape andRural Production Areaunder the SEQ RegionalPlan• Important koala habitat -critical source areas forthe survival and dispersalof koalas across thelandscape• Large areas of relativelyintact remnant orregrowth eucalyptdominatedforest andwoodlands• Area may include clearedareas and areas offragmented forest andwoodlands• Area generally reflectshigh connectivitybetween patches• Area contains high koalahabitat values and/orgenerally high koaladensities (relative to thelocal government area)• Habitat contains a mosaicof private lands, publiclands and park estatewith limited infrastructureor urban development• Statutory intent• Located within either theUrban Footprint or RuralLiving Area under the SEQRegional Plan• Important koala habitat— critical to the survivaland dispersal of koalasacross the landscape• Areas of relatively intactand/or fragmentedremnant and regrowtheucalypt-dominatedforest and woodlands• Area may include clearedareas• Area generally reflectsmedium/highconnectivity betweenpatches• Contains high koalahabitat values and/orgenerally high koaladensities (relative to thelocal government area)• Habitat contains a mosaicof private lands, publiclands and park estate.Increase levels ofinfrastructure and urbandevelopment• Habitat may contain openspace areas and existingrural residentialdevelopment• Statutory intent• Located within either theUrban Footprint or RuralLiving Area under the SEQRegional Plan• Area subject to arecognised urbanplanning intent withinlocal governmentplanning instruments• May contain patches offragmented remnant andregrowth eucalyptdominatedwoodland• May include clearedareas• Varied levels ofconnectivity• May contain areas withboth high and lower koalahabitat values and/orkoala densities (relativeto the local governmentarea)• Non-statutory intent• Located within either theRegional Landscape andRural Production; RuralLiving Area or UrbanFootprint under the SEQRegional Plan• Area may support smallbushland areas,vegetated creek lines,parks, scattered trees,residential areas withlandscaped gardens andcleared areas• Area is known to supportpockets of highlyfragmented koala habitatand/or lower densitykoala population• Area may be highlyurbanised with a highlevel of infrastructureprovision or be located ina highly modified rural orsemi rural environment84

Table 15 provides a worked example ofhow the above information may becombined to identify Koala HabitatAreas and Koala Living Areas. Thenumber of koala habitat zones (e.g. A–B versus A–F) will influence the extentof each koala classification.In identifying Koala Habitat Areas andKoala Living Areas, adequateconsideration must be given to anyrelevant planning outcomes orobjectives reflected in a localgovernment strategic planningdocument and/or the SEQ RegionalPlan, particularly when proposingadditional Koala Sustainability Areasor Urban Koala Areas within the UrbanFootprint.Once the koala classification processis completed, the koala habitatassessment map can be spatiallyoverlaid with the SEQ Regional Planregional land use categories and localgovernment planning scheme zoningmap (or equivalent) to produce acadastrally-based local governmentkoala habitat map.Approved local government mapA local government map must showthe local government area dividedinto Koala Habitat Areas. It may alsoshow Koala Living Areas. All KoalaHabitat Areas must align withcadastral boundaries.The local government map does nothave effect until the map is:• endorsed by the chiefexecutive; and• reflected within a temporary localgovernment planning instrumentor a local government planningscheme made by the localgovernment.(5) State Government endorsementof local government mapThe koala habitat assessment andmapping study must be provided to theState Government for endorsement.Accompanying the study and requestfor endorsement must bedocumentation that demonstrates thestudy has been approved by therelevant local government.Accompanying documentation shouldalso outline the timetable for includingthe map within either a temporary localplanning instrument or localgovernment planning scheme.Note, the koala habitat assessmentand mapping study could be providedto the EPA prior to or as part of the firstState interest check when making oramending a local government planningscheme under the Integrated PlanningAct. Public consultation for thepurposes of the draft local governmentkoala habitat map and the planningscheme/amendment could then occursimultaneously.In response to local government’srequest to amend the State map, theEPA through the chief executive (EPA),will either:• endorse the local government koalahabitat map; or• enter into discussions with thelocal government.Once the local government map isendorsed, the approved localgovernment map may be reflectedin either a temporary local planninginstrument or local governmentplanning scheme consistent withthe requirements of the IntegratedPlanning Act.Any subsequent changes to a localgovernment koala habitat mapfollowing initial endorsement bythe EPA are to be re-submitted forendorsement before the change isincluded within the planning schemeor temporary local planning instrument.(6) Effect of local government koalahabitat mapThe local government koala habitatmap, once included within the localgovernment planning scheme (ortemporary local planning instrumentprior to the making or amending ofthe planning scheme), will be utilisedto trigger the assessment ofdevelopment applications againstthe koala conservation criteria.Table 15Method of identifying Koala Habitat Areas and Koala Living AreasExample table onlyKoalahabitatzone(Sourced from matrix)Regional Landscape andRural Production Area(SEQ Regional Plan)Urban Footprint/Rural Living Area(SEQ Regional Plan)Planning scheme or otherPlanning scheme or otherA Habitat Koala Conservation Area Koala Sustainability Area Urban Koala AreaB Habitat Koala Conservation Area Koala Sustainability Area Urban Koala AreaC Habitat Koala Conservation Area Koala Living Area Koala Living AreaD HabitatKoala Living Area or NorequirementsNo requirementsNo requirementsGenerally not present No requirements No requirements No requirementsNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 685

This will include both local governmentassessment processes and StateGovernment assessment processes.Where additional Koala ConservationAreas and Koala Sustainability Areashave been identified, the EPA will bea concurrence agency for any relevantdevelopment applicationssubsequently made in these areas.Due to the linkages between thedesignation of Koala Habitat Areasunder the SEQ Regional Plan, theKoala Conservation Plan, and thekoala conservation criteria, and withthe EPA as concurrence agency,removal of a koala habitat areacurrently identified in Map 5 of theSEQ Regional Plan will not havestatutory effect unless the SEQRegional Plan is amended. Onlyadditional Koala Habitat Areas willhave statutory effect through the localgovernment’s planning scheme or atemporary local planning instrument.The SEQ Regional Plan will seldombe amended. However, if a localgovernment can provide strongevidence to the EPA that an amendmentis warranted in relation to the existingKoala Habitat Areas, the EPA will assistthe local government in seeking sucha change, should the opportunity toamend the SEQ Regional Plan arise.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.au86

Policy 8:PurposeDrafting andamending planningschemesThe purpose of this policy is to:• provide advice to local governmenton the making and amending ofplanning schemes to adequatelyreflect the Nature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan 2006and Management Program 2006–2016 as it relates to planning anddevelopment.Application of the policyThe policy is applicable to all localgovernment areas identified by theSEQ Regional Plan in the South EastQueensland Region. This equates toDistrict A in the Koala Plan. See Annex1 of the Policy.While the policy is applicable only tothe South East Queensland region orDistrict A, it does not preclude localgovernment within District B or C fromelecting to apply the policy to achievekoala conservation outcomes.Outcomes sought by the policyThe outcomes sought by the policy are:• reflection of the purposes of theKoala Plan, as they relate toplanning and development,reflected in planning schemes;• reflection of a regionally consistentapproach to the reflection of theKoala Plan within planningschemes;• development identified in KoalaConservation and KoalaSustainability Areas is compatiblewith the conservation of koalas andkoala habitat; and• structure plans address theconservation of koalas and koalahabitat.Other considerationsNothing in the Koala Plan restricts alocal government from addressing theplanning for and management ofkoalas and koala habitat in more detailor using more stringent requirementsthan that required by the Koala Plan.Relationship to the South EastQueensland Regional Plan2005–2026The SEQ Regional Plan, released on30 June 2005, is a statutory instrumentunder the Statutory Instruments Act1992 and is also a planning instrumentunder the Integrated Planning Act1997. It has a direct effect in its ownright and indirect effect through theamendment and alignment of localgovernment planning schemes andstate plans and policies.The SEQ Regional Plan provides thestrategic framework for growthmanagement in the South EastQueensland region while alsoprotecting the region’s main naturalassets.The SEQ Regional Plan contains anumber of policies that are intended toachieve the document’s regional visionand strategic direction for the SouthEast Queensland region. Koalaconservation polices (section 2.2 KoalaConservation) form part of the regionalplan, to assist koala survival through aplanning and development approach.This approach uses developmentassessment, land use planningthrough planning schemes, and theidentification of Koala Habitat Areasand the mapping of koala habitat. TheSEQ Regional Plan specifically links tothe Koala Plan through a requirementto assess development in definedareas (Koala Habitat Areas) againstkoala conservation criteria containedin the Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006–2016(Koala Plan).Koala PlanThe Koala Plan is Queensland’swhole of government document thatoutlines planning and managementoutcomes for the koala and koalahabitat. These outcomes are focusedon the management of threats tokoalas and koala habitat and reversingthe decline in koala numbers.The koala was listed as vulnerableunder the Nature Conservation Act inthe South East Queensland Bioregionin March 2004 in recognition of adecline in koala numbers. The level ofthreat within the bioregion, particularlyin south-east Queensland, is due tothreatening processes such as habitatloss and fragmentation, disease, carstrikes and dog attacks.State Government interestsThe Koala Plan, as it relates to planningand development, is to be reflected inplanning schemes to ensure that theState Government’s interests inprotecting and managing koalas andkoala habitat are applied at a localcontext when planning for future useand development, and makingdecisions on developmentapplications. This is achieved whenall aspects of a planning scheme areconsistent with the Koala Plan to anextent that satisfies the Minister forLocal Government and Planning,acting for the State Government on theadvice of the Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) and the Department ofLocal Government, Planning, Sport andRecreation (DLGPSR).Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 687

Achieving the policy outcomethrough the planning schemeThe policy outcome is achieved whenmaking or amending a planningscheme if the planning scheme oramendment is consistent with Table16. Table 16 shows the preferredapproach that local governments canadopt to reflect Koala Habitat Areaswithin local government planningschemes. How the purposes of theKoala Plan, and specifically the KoalaHabitat Areas, are reflected, willdepend on the structure of theparticular planning scheme. Theunderlying intent of the Koala Planmust be reflected in the overallstructure of the planning scheme ifdifferent to that identified in Table 16.Table 16Recommended planning scheme approachPlanning scheme element Recommended approach CommentsDesired EnvironmentalOutcomes (DEO)Zones (or equivalent)Overlay/overlay codeAssessable developmentAssessment criteriaDEO that provides for the protection of biodiversityand ecological processes.1. Koala Conservation and Koala SustainabilityAreas reflected as:• Rural• Rural conservation• Conservation• Environmental protectionUrban Koala Areas• Zonings (or equivalent) consistent with urbanintentOR2. Maintain existing zone/s or similar withoutincreasing development rights that areincompatible with the protection of koalas andkoala habitat.Koala Habitat Area overlay• Identify Koala Conservation Area/KoalaSustainability Area/Urban Koala Area cadastralboundaries.Natural features overlay reflecting:• remnant and non-remnant vegetation• corridors(a) State/regional wildlife corridors;(b) local ecological corridors; and(c) rehabilitation/revegetation linkage corridorsDevelopment associated with Material Change inUse (MCU), Reconfiguration of a Lot (RoL) andOperational Works identified in Annex 2 is madeassessable development.Refer to section 5 of Koala Plan, koala conservationcriteria.The DEO may or may not containspecific reference to koalas and koalahabitat.Local government is not required toreduce or restrict existing developmentrights (development commitments)contained in existing planningschemes.Development rights (developmentcommitments) should not be extendedin Koala Conservation or KoalaSustainability Areas unless it isconsistent with the purpose of theKoala Plan and overall outcomes forthe relevant Koala Habitat Area, as theyrelate to planning and development.The overall outcomes of each of theKoala Habitat Areas should inform thezone code’s (or equivalent) overall andspecific outcomes.Non-remnant vegetation providesimportant habitat to koalas. Where dataon non-remnant vegetation is available,it is recommended this information bereflected and made assessabledevelopment.The Koala Habitat Area overalloutcomes should inform relevant code’soverall outcomes.88

Table 16Recommended planning scheme approach (cont)Planning scheme element Recommended approach CommentsPlanning scheme policiesLand designated for communityinfrastructureUnder the Integrated Planning Act, theKoala Plan (through the SEQ RegionalPlan), must be considered whenassessing and designating land forcommunity infrastructure.Planning scheme policies may incorporate or refer tothe following Koala Plan policies/information:• Policy 2: Offsets for net benefit to koalas andkoala habitat• Policy 4: Koala survey methodology for siteassessment• Policy 6: Vegetation clearing requirements• Landscaping requirements in Koala Habitat Areas• Koala friendly/koala exclusion fencing designrequirements contained in Policy 1: Koalasensitive developmentThis policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 689

Annex 1 Local governments to which thepolicy appliesThe policy applies to all localgovernments listed below.Beaudesert ShireBrisbane CityBoonah ShireCaboolture ShireCaloundra CityEsk ShireGatton ShireGold Coast CityIpswich CityKilcoy ShireLaidley ShireLogan CityMaroochy ShireNoosa ShirePine Rivers ShireRedcliffe CityRedland ShireToowoomba City90

Annex 2 Assessable developmentThe development activity listed inColumn 3 should be reflected asassessable development within KoalaHabitat Areas.Column 1 Column 2 Column 3Koala Habitat Area Development Development activityKoala Conservation AreaandKoala Sustainability AreaUrban Koala Area wherethe premises are not —(a) subject to anapproved structureplan; or(b) located in a Local AreaPlan, DevelopmentControl Plan, MasterPlan, precinct or othersimilar local planninginstrument whichcontains koalamanagementmeasures; or(c) located within aRegional ActivityCentre.Material Change of Use otherthan a ‘domestic activity’Reconfiguring a lotOperational workMaterial Change of Use otherthan a —(a) ‘domestic activity’(b) development which isconsistent with anexisting preliminaryapproval.Reconfiguring a lotOperational workWhere development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) a new building and any reasonably associated structure witha total footprint greater than 500m 2 ; or(c) an extension to an existing building and any reasonablyassociated structure if the extension has a footprint greaterthan 500m 2 ; or(d) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(e) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 ; or(f) additional traffic in an area between 6pm on a day and 6amon the following day.Where development involves:(a) increasing the number of lots; or(b) the clearing of native vegetation.Where development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(c) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 .Where development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) a new building and any reasonably associated structure witha total footprint greater than 500m 2 ;(c) an extension to an existing building and any reasonablyassociated structure if the extension has a footprint greaterthan 500m 2 ; or(d) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(e) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 .Where development involves:(a) increasing the number of lots; or(b) the clearing of native vegetation.Where development involves:(a) the clearing of native vegetation; or(b) extracting gravel, rock, sand or soil from an area greater than5000m 2 , or(c) excavating or filling an area greater than 5000m 2 .Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 691

Policy 9: Requirements forprivate koalahospitalsPurposeThe purpose of this policy is to:• identify general operatingrequirements for private koalahospitals;• outline the recording and reportingrequirements; and• identify the requirements forvolunteers working at private koalahospitals.General operating requirementsPrivate koala hospitals must:• be established under agreementwith the EPA,• hold a valid rehabilitation permitissued under the NatureConservation Act 1992;• comply with koala rehabilitationand release guidelines developedas part of this Koala ManagementProgram and local governmentplanning requirements; and• provide individual identificationnumbers (e.g. microchip) to allkoalas handled.• body score;• tooth wear;• description of problem;• health status;• reproductive status;• treatment details;• fate of koala (died, euthanased,treated, released, etc.);• date of release;• specific location of release site forrehabilitated koalas (address, ordetailed description); and• any other information required bythe Moggill Koala Hospital for entryto the central database.VolunteersVolunteers at private koala hospitals:• are to operate under the hospital’srehabilitation permit;• comply with any applicablerehabilitation and releaseguidelines (also see Policy 5:Requirements for the translocationand release of koalas).Recording and reportingrequirementsPrivately operated hospitals must keeprecords and provide a monthly reportlisting all koalas admitted to thehospital to the Manager, Moggill KoalaHospital. The report should include thefollowing information:• koala record number;• koala identification number (ear tagor microchip);• koala name (if applicable);• size (e.g. adult, sub-adult,juvenile);• sex;• date of collection;• location where koala was found(address, or detailed description);• weight;This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.au92

Policy 10: SEQ Regional Planinvestigation areasPurposeThe purpose of this policy is to:• identify the intent of the Koala Planfor Investigation Areas identifiedthe SEQ Regional Plan.2. reflection of Koala Habitat Areasin local government planninginstruments consistent withPolicy 8: Drafting and amendingplanning schemes.Application of the policyThis policy applies to:• the Investigation Area land usecategory identified by the SEQRegional Plan; and• State or local government initiatingstudies into the Investigation Area.Investigation AreasInvestigation Areas have not beenmapped as Koala Habitat Areas in theKoala Plan however may support koalahabitat. Prior to any intensification inland use, the area is to be assessed todetermine its importance to koalas.The outcomes sought for InvestigationAreas are:1. identification of koala habitat priorto, or as part of the InvestigationArea planning studies;• It is highly desirable that theassessment and mapping ofkoala habitat occurs as partof a holistic whole-of-shire/citykoala habitat and mappingprocess. This is in preferenceto an isolated process of habitatassessment and mapping ofthe Investigation Area only.Should this occur, furtheradvice can be obtained fromthe EPA if required; and• Policy 7: Koala habitatassessment and mappingshould be used to assess andmap koala habitat; and classifyKoala Habitat Areas whereappropriate.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 693

Policy 11: Rehabilitation ofland to providekoala habitatPurposeThe purpose of this policy is to:• identify the outcomes sought by arehabilitation plan within koalahabitat;• provide advice on the rehabilitationof existing cleared or partiallycleared koala habitat areas; and• identify ways of measuring thesuccess of the rehabilitationprogram.Application of the policyThis policy applies to the rehabilitationof cleared, denuded or disturbedkoala habitat.When to rehabilitateRehabilitation of a site shouldcommence progressively wheredevelopment is to occur in stages,and as soon as practicable aftercompletion of works for each stageof the development.Rehabilitation planA rehabilitation plan should reflect thefollowing outcomes, as a minimum:• the collection and propagation ofon-site or local seed stock, wherepossible;• regeneration with a similarcomposition of species (type,density and diversity) comparedto a relevant reference site or tonatural vegetation communitiesfor the site;• progressive or stagedrehabilitation;• re-contouring and reinstatement oforiginal or appropriate soil profiles;• erosion minimisation andmanagement;• a stable final landform which doesnot prevent, stop or endanger koalamovement;• regular weed maintenanceprogram;• indicators of rehabilitationsuccess; and• monitoring of rehabilitated andrevegetated areas.Plant species selection andplantingThe plant species to be used inrevegetation must be consistent withthe pre-clearing regional ecosystem 7 orvegetation community/ies. Propagationfrom on-site or local seed stock isstrongly recommended, particularlywhere revegetation is undertaken overlarge areas. Revegetation should occurat similar densities and diversity tothat found in on-site pre-clearingregional ecosystems or vegetationcommunities. Where this informationcannot be ascertained, revegetationshould reflect a relevant reference site.Monitoring the success of therehabilitation programMonitoring of rehabilitation methods isimportant for increased efficiency andeffectiveness, particularly where longterm progressive rehabilitation isplanned or there is a need to evaluateperformance indicators. A number ofmethods may be used, depending onthe extent of the rehabilitationprogram. The monitoring of theeffectiveness of the rehabilitated areato function as a biophysical system isalso important, in addition tomonitoring the success of therehabiliation program to provide koalahabitat.Monitoring up to two yearsafter plantingMonitoring of planted vegetation in theearly stages of rehabilitation isnecessary to ensure survival. Duringthe two year monitoring period, anyplanted vegetation that dies isreplaced with healthy plant(s) meetingthe requirements above. Replacementplants should be planted in the samelocality and continue to be monitored.Monitoring up to five yearsafter plantingMonitoring of the health, growth andsurvival of plants in the early stages ofrehabilitation can determine the mostappropriate:• ground preparation methods—ripping of beds, removingcompetition from non-nativespecies, mulching, or use of localstockpiled topsoil;• choice of planting stock—relying onnatural regeneration for someaspects of the rehabilitationprogram, or using tube stock ormore advanced plants; and• planting regimes—the timing ofplantings to ensure the best growthrates of plants, or the most effectiveuse of resources (e.g. water) for thesurvival of plants.Monitoring beyond five yearsafter plantingLonger term monitoring of the use ofrehabilitated areas by koalas is theprimary means of measuring thesuccess of efforts to restore koalahabitat. While koalas may use youngtrees for foraging, there is usually notadequate branch formation in whichkoalas can rest until trees are over fiveyears of age. The success ofestablishing koala habitat, particularlyas trees mature, is reflected by koalause of the area where:7See Regional Ecosystem Description Database (REDDs) that is maintained by the Queensland Herbarium, Environmental Protection Agency, Brisbane.The database is available on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website at www.epa.qld.gov.au/environment/science/herbarium/regional_ecosystems94

• resident koalas are occupyingrehabilitated areas at densitiesthat reflect average densities inthe local area in undisturbedhabitat; and• evidence of scratch marks or faecalpellets indicate a temporary koalapresence.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 695

Policy 12: Local roadplacement, designand upgradePurposeThe purpose of this policy is to identifya best practice approach to worksrelating to local road networks to:• assist with the placement anddesign of new roads;• assist with the development anddesign of upgrades to existingroad networks;• reduce vehicle related koala injuryand mortality; and• minimise koala habitatfragmentation.BackgroundRoads fragment habitat, severinghabitat links and inhibiting the safemovement and dispersal of koalas.Poorly placed or designed roads cansignificantly impact on local koalapopulations. Road related impactsare recognised as a key threateningprocess in south-east Queensland.Minimise the impacts to koalasand their habitatThe following principles should beconsidered when planning new roadsor upgrading existing roads:• avoid bisecting or fragmenting ofsignificant koala habitat orhabitat links;• minimise the loss of habitat;• mitigate road impacts throughappropriate design measures;Assessment of area of proposedroad worksAn assessment of the developmentarea should be undertaken to identifyany potential impacts to the local andregional koala population. Theassessment should:• identify if the proposed works fallswithin or is adjacent to a KoalaHabitat Area (if within south eastQueensland), important koalahabitat, or is a link betweenhabitat areas;• source koala sightings or roadmortality data from the EPA’sdatabases to determine locationsof koala road accidents. In lieu ofkoala distribution and abundancedata for the area, communityreports of koalas can also providean indication of the likely presenceof koalas in an area;• determine the movements andhabitat use of koalas, wherepossible; and• identify mitigation measures forany identified potential impacts.Mitigation measuresExtensions to existing road networksor the construction of new roads inkoala habitat should be designedto achieve the best possible outcomesfor koalas where possible. Thefollowing best practice measuresmay not be appropriate in all instancesdue to technical and economicconstraints. Alternative measuresmay also be suitable to mitigate koalaroad mortality.Koala exclusion fencingThe option to include or excludekoala use of the road should be basedon the results of the assessment study.A koala accident ‘hotspot’ may beidentified where a greater than averagenumber of koala accidents per lengthof road is observed, as compared tothe total length of the road or theaverage number of koala accidentson a similar category of road. Potentialfuture koala hotspots may occurwhere new roads unavoidably bisectkoala habitat or habitat links. Tominimise further koala road mortality,it may be necessary to exclude koalasfrom the road.To exclude koalas, fencing is necessaryand should be:• of a floppy top design, or smoothmetal or perspex sheets of at least50cm in height attached to the topof fencing that koalas can climb.• at least three metres away fromtrees and shrubs;• monitored at regular intervals torepair damage to fences or removefallen vegetation that might allowkoalas access to the road.The use of exclusion fencing to keepkoalas from sections of roads shouldonly be considered if alternative meansfor koala movements are provided.Exclusion fencing should serve theduel purpose of excluding koalasfrom the road and funnelling animalsto ‘safe’ crossing points on, over orunder roadways.Fauna overpasses and underpassesKoala overpasses and underpassesmay provide opportunities for faunamovement, including koalas. The mostcommon forms of underpasses andoverpasses include:Underpasses• culverts;• pipes; and• bridges or raised structures thatallow fauna movement beneaththe road;Overpasses• land bridges; or• other structures that may bedesigned for use by specific typeof fauna.The following should be consideredwhen designing or installingunderpasses or overpasses to enhancekoala usage or improve conservationoutcomes:• Dry cell culverts or other structuresinstalled in culverts or pipes avoidwaterlogging of the underpass andallow continuous unimpeded useof the underpass by koalas. Forexample, the placement of raised96

interconnecting logs through anunderpass will reduce the threatof predation and provide a meansof koala access in times ofinundation;• Underpasses that are as large indiameter as possible are generallymore conducive to koala use;• Land bridges, landscaped to reflectthe surrounding environment,provide the most natural meansof koala movement;• Locate underpass or overpassstructures in areas of high koalamovement. This is especiallyimportant where koalas are knownto use habitat on either side of theroad as part of a home range, orwhere there is a habitat link toother koala habitat areas; and• Trial underpass and overpassstructures to determine potentialeffectiveness before installationand monitor the outcomes todetermine success. This mayinvolve collaborative partnershipswith other organisations or bodies.Residential estatesRoads are designed, whereappropriate, to:• limit traffic speeds by:• curving and winding roadsections, where appropriate;• speed reduction or other trafficcalming devices;• signed low speed limits(residential roads); and• koala movement awarenesssigns.• retain or create interlocking treecanopies over roads;• incorporate trees within trafficislands and streetscapes, such asareas designated for slowpoints; and• allow minor deviations in roads anddriveways to retain important trees(these measures may also assistwith traffic calming).Other mitigation measuresTo allow koalas unimpeded access tothe road, or access to crossing points,the road and surrounding environmentshould be made as koala friendly aspossible to avoid road accidents (referto Policy 1: Koala sensitivedevelopment) and include thefollowing mitigation strategies:• signage or other road treatmentsto alert drivers to the presence ofkoalas. Signage should bedesigned in consultation with theDepartment of Main Roads toachieve a consistent approachto design;• enhanced lighting to make koalason road more visible to drivers;• landscaping treatments to improvethe visibility of koalas entering theroad way. For example, regularlymowed road verges (where habitattrees are retained) or plantings inmedian strips with lower branchesremoved allow koalas to be seenbefore entering the carriage way;• in situ public awareness strategiessuch as reflectors, audible lines orpainted zones on roads to alertdrivers to koala crossing points.This is critical if animals are to befunnelled to certain sections ofroads via exclusion fencing; and• monitoring measures foreffectiveness e.g. zones with speedreductions.General monitoringEvidence of the successful use of anunderpass, overpass or crossing pointis often required before resources areinvested in this cause. In lieu ofbaseline data, mitigation measuresoften are not installed, as there is noassurance of desired outcomes.Trialing and monitoring of the successof mitigation measures is the primarymeans of gathering baseline datanecessary to evaluate the effectivenessof a particular strategy or structuraldesign. Where resources permit, it isrecommended that:• Trials are set up with an appropriateexperimental design to allowinterrogation and analysis of data;• Monitoring of koala use ofunderpass or overpass structuresor crossing points in situ to confirmthe success of the strategy;• Trials and monitoring programsare developed in consultationwith other relevant organisationsor bodies.This policy was accurate at the time theKoala Plan was declared. A currentversion of this policy can be found atwww.epa.qld.gov.auNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 697

GlossaryChief executive (EPA): means the chiefexecutive of the department in whichthe Nature Conservation Act 1992 isadministered.Clear: see the Integrated Planning Act1997, schedule 10.Committed development means aDevelopment commitmentCommunity infrastructure: seeIntegrated Planning Act 1997,schedule 5.Concurrence agency: see IntegratedPlanning Act 1997, schedule 10.Conservation agreements means aconservation agreement under section45 of the Nature Conservation Act 1992.Development application: see theIntegrated Planning Act 1997,schedule 10.Development commitment: means anyof the following:(a) a development with a currentdevelopment approval; or(b) a material change of use clearlyconsistent with:(i) if within the Regional Landscapeand Rural Production Area, RuralLiving Area, Investigation Area— the regulatory provisions ofthe SEQ Regional Plan; and thepurposes of codes (orequivalent policy intents) of therelevant zone (or equivalent)and any applicable overlays inthe relevant planningscheme; or(ii) if within the Urban Footprint —the purposes of codes (orequivalent policy intents) of therelevant zone (or equivalent)and any applicable overlays inthe planning scheme; or(c) reconfiguring a lot consistent with:(i) if within the Regional Landscapeand Rural Production Area, RuralLiving Area, Investigation Area— the regulatory provisions ofthe SEQ Regional Plan; and thepurposes of codes (orequivalent policy intents) ofthe relevant zone (or equivalent)and any applicable overlays inthe relevant planning scheme;or(ii) if within the Urban Footprint —the purposes of codes (orequivalent policy intents) of therelevant zone (or equivalent)and any applicable overlays inthe planning scheme; or(d) building or operational work:(i) arising from and necessarilyassociated with a validdevelopment approval for amaterial change of use orreconfiguring a lot; or(ii) consistent with the planningscheme; or(iii) that is a developmentconsistent with a communityinfrastructure designation.Domestic activity means theconstruction or use of a singleresidence on a lot and any reasonablyassociated building or structure.Examples of a building or structure thatcould be reasonably associated with asingle residence include:• a caretakers residence,• granny flat, or• building or structure used for ahome business.Extractive industry development:means assessable developmentthat is for:(a) the extraction and processing ofextractive resources for use ininfrastructure or construction; and(b) activities associated with theextraction and processing.However, extractive industrydevelopment does not include theextraction of rock in slab form for abuilding or monument.Footprint: of a building and associatedstructure, or an extension of an existingbuilding and associated structure,means the total area of land developedfor the building and structure, or theextension, including, for example, theareas covered by following:(a) the floor area of the building andstructure or the extension;(b) landscaping and fencing for thebuilding and structure or theextension;(c) a car park, driveway or other facilityassociated with the building andstructure or the extension.General development: means anyassessable development with theexception of a domestic activity,extractive industry or communityinfrastructure.Habitat linkage: means koala habitatthat allows for and promotes themovement of koalas into, within, orout of an area.Key resource area: means an areaidentified as a key resource area in aState planning policy about extractiveresources made under the IntegratedPlanning Act 1997, chapter 2, part 4.Koala:(a) means a mammal of the speciesPhascolarctos cinereus and(b) includes the reproductive materialof a mammal mentioned inparagraph (a).Koala classification: means a KoalaConservation Area, Koala SustainabilityArea, Urban Koala Living Area or KoalaLiving Area.98

Koala Coast: means the geographicalarea comprising portions of RedlandShire, Brisbane City and Logan City asidentified in the repealed StatePlanning Policy 1/97:Conservation ofKoalas in the Koala Coast.Koala Conservation Area: means(a) each part of the State shown on theSEQ map as a koala conservationarea; and(b) if a local government has anapproved local government mapfor its area—each part of the localgovernment’s area shown on themap as a koala conservation area.Koala conservation criteria: meansdevelopment assessment criteriaapplied to or within a Koala HabitatArea.Koala district: means:(a) koala district A; or(b) koala district B; or(c) koala district C.Koala district A: means the areadescribed in schedule 1, section 1 ofthe Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006.Koala district B: means the areadescribed in schedule 1, section 2 ofthe Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006.Koala district C: means the areadescribed in schedule 1, section 3 ofthe Nature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006.Koala habitat: means(a) a woodland where koalas currentlylive; or(b) a partially or completely clearedarea that is used by koalas to crossfrom one woodland where koalascurrently live to another woodlandwhere koalas currently live; or(c) a woodland where koalas do notcurrently live if the woodland:i. primarily consists of koalahabitat trees; andii. is reasonably suitable to sustainkoalas.Koala Habitat Area means:(a) a Koala Conservation Area; or(b) a Koala Sustainability Area; or(c) an Urban Koala Area.Koala habitat tree: means a tree of anyof the following genera:(a) Angophora;(b) Corymbia;(c) Eucalyptus;(d) Lophostemon; and(e) Melaleuca.Koala habitat values: means thosecharacteristics of an area that make itsuitable as habitat or refuge for koalas.These characteristics include thenature, extent, condition andconnectivity of an area and its relationto other areas of habitat.Koala Living Area means:(a) generally — each part of the Stateshown on Map 3 as a Koala LivingArea; and(b) if a local government has prepareda local government koala habitatmap for its area — each part of thearea shown on its map as a KoalaLiving Area.Koala spotter: means a person whohas demonstrated experience inlocating koalas in koala habitats orconducting fauna surveys.Koala sensitive development: meansdevelopment that reflects theintegration of targeted planning,design, construction and operationalmeasures which avoid (wherepossible), minimise and mitigate theimpacts associated with developmentand associated infrastructure, onkoalas and koala habitat. It createspermeable environments that:• provide for the safe movement ofkoalas within and across thelandscape; and• reduces the threats to koalas.Koala Sustainability Area: means(a) each part of the State shown on theSEQ map as a Koala SustainabilityArea; and(b) if a local government has anapproved local government mapfor its area—each part of the localgovernment’s area shown on themap as a koala sustainability area.Local government road: see theTransport Infrastructure Act 1994.Nature refuge: a nature refuge is asigned conservation agreementbetween the landholder and theQueensland Government to preservean area of land valued for its significantbiodiversity and/or cultural heritage.Once the conservation agreement issigned, the land has permanentprotection, even if the landholdersells the land.Net benefit to koalas and koalahabitat: an overall improvement in thelong term viability of koala populationsin the wild.Offset: an offset is an action inconservation undertaken by anapplicant to compensate for anadverse environmental impactelsewhere.Other development: meansdevelopment other than an extractiveindustry or community infrastructure.Predominantly cleared habitat: meansareas where less than 20 percent of thearea is vegetated.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 699

Prescribed natural habitat: means(a) for a koala taken from the wild, or akoala that is the progeny of a koalataken from the wild:(i) the area within 1 km of wherethe koala was taken, but onlyif at least part of the area iskoala habitat; or(ii) if subparagraph (i) does notapply — any koala habitat to theextent it is within 5km of wherethe koala was taken; or(b) for another koala — a koala habitat,research into which shows thefollowing:(i) the release of the koala into thekoala habitat will not adverselyaffect any species of wildlife inthe koala habitat;(ii) the genetic make-up of thekoala is similar to the geneticmake-up of koalas currentlyliving in the koala habitat.Prescribed release conditions: for therelease of a koala, means: all of thefollowing:(a) the koala is to be released into akoala habitat;(b) research about the koala and thekoala habitat shows the following:(i) the release of the koala into thekoala habitat will not adverselyaffect any species of wildlife inthe koala habitat;(ii) the genetic make-up of thekoala is similar to the geneticmake-up of koalas currentlyliving in the koala habitat;(c) the release of the koala into thehabitat is a key component of theresearch project for which theapplication for the permit, underwhich the koala is to be released, ismade;(d) the research project provides forthe recapture of the koala if thechief executive (EPA) requires therecapture.Regional Activity Centre: see SEQRegional Plan.Regrowth: means vegetation that is notremnant vegetation under theVegetation Management Act 1999.Rehabilitation permit: means a permitto allow particular persons to care forand rehabilitate:(a) a sick, injured or orphanedprotected animal; or(b) a protected animal whose habitathas been, or will be, destroyed byhuman activity or a naturaldisaster;under the Nature Conservation(Wildlife) Regulation 1994.Remnant vegetation: see VegetationManagement Act 1999.Scientific purposes permit: means apermit allowing particular persons totake, keep or use a protected,international or prohibited animal onlyfor conducting scientific research for agenuine scientific purpose, under theNature Conservation (Wildlife)Regulation 1994.SEQ map: means map 5 of the SEQRegional Plan.SEQ region: means the SEQ region asdescribed in the Integrated PlanningAct 1997, section 2.5A.2SEQ Regional Plan: means the SouthEast Queensland Regional Plan 2005-2006 made under the IntegratedPlanning Act 1997.Sequential clearing: see the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006, section 15.Source areas: means areas which arethe least fragmented, highest densityhabitat areas where the koalapopulations with high birth rates andlow disease incidence from whichkoalas disperse into adjoining areas.State map: see the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan2006, section 10.Structure Plan: see SEQ Regional Plan.Translocation: means the deliberatetransfer of a koala from a naturalpopulation or release of a koala thathas been taken from the wild into apart of the wild that is not a prescribednatural habitat for the koala.Trust for Nature: means the not-forprofitorganisation sponsored by theEPA and which is currently operating arevolving fund with funds provided bythe Queensland Government. The Trustfor Nature seeks philanthropic supportfor its activities for a variety of sourcesin an ongoing manner.Uncommitted development: meansdevelopment that is not a developmentcommitment.Urban activity: see SEQ Regional Plan.Urban Koala Area: means(a) each part of the State shown onthe State map as an Urban KoalaArea; and(b) if a local government has anapproved local government mapfor its area—each part of the localgovernment’s area shown on themap as an Urban Koala Area.Vulnerable: means as defined unders78(2) of the Nature Conservation Act1992.100

Bibliography/ReferencesANZECC (Australia and New ZealandEnvironment and ConservationCouncil) (1998) National KoalaConservation Strategy (EnvironmentAustralia: Canberra).ARAZPAQ (2003). Code of Practiceof the Australasian RegionalAssociation of Zoological Parks andAquaria Queensland — Minimumstandards for exhibiting wildlife inQueensland. EPA, Brisbane.Carrick, F. N., Wood, A. D., and Fyfe, L.(1996) ‘Standards for treatment ofkoalas’ In Koalas, Research forManagement: Proceedings of theBrisbane Koala Symposium (editorG. Gordon) World Koala ResearchInc., Corinda.Caughley, G. and Sinclair, A.R.E.(1994). Wildlife Ecology andManagement, Blackwell Science:Cambridge.Department of Primary Industriesand Fisheries (2004) Stocktake.Balancing supply and demand.Department of Primary Industriesand Fisheries and Department ofNatural Resources and Mines.de Villiers, D. L., Preece, H. J., andDique, D. S. (in prep) ‘Domestic dogrelated koala (Phascolarctoscinereus) mortality in south eastQueensland’ Wildlife Research.de Villiers, D. L., Dique, D. S., Preece,H. J., Thompson, J., Leslie, R. S., deVilliers, M. A., and Penfold, G. C. (inpress) ‘The capture, handling andradio collaring of koalasPhascolarctos cinereus in southeast Queensland: Associatedimpacts and ethical considerations’Australian Mammalogy.Dique, D. S. (2004) The distribution,abundance and dynamics of aregional koala population in southeast Queensland PhD Thesis,University of Queensland, Brisbane.Dique, D. S., de Villiers, D. L.,Thompson, J., Preece, H. J., Penfold,G. C., and Leslie, R. S. (2000)The impact of differential speedsigns on koala mortality on roadsin south east Queensland.Queensland Parks and WildlifeService, Brisbane.Dique, D. S., Penfold, G., Thompson, J.,Leslie, R., and Preece, H. (2001)‘Koala distribution and density insouth east Queensland: theaccuracy and precision of koalasurveys’ In The Research andManagement of Non-urban KoalaPopulations (editors K. Lyons, A.Melzer, F. Carrick, and D. Lamb)Koala Research Centre ofQueensland: Rockhampton, pp.105–121.Dique, D. S., de Villiers, D. L., andPreece, H. J. (2003a) ‘Evaluation ofline transect sampling forestimating koala abundance in thePine Rivers Shire, south eastQueensland’ Wildlife Research 30:127–133.Dique, D. S., Thompson, J., de Villiers,D. L., Preece, H. J., and Carrick, F. N.(2003b) ‘Dispersal patterns in aregional koala population in southeast Queensland’ Wildlife Research30: 281–290.Dique, D. S., Thompson, J., Preece, H.J., Penfold, G. C., de Villiers, D. L.,and Leslie, R. S. (2003c) ‘Koalamortality on roads in south-eastQueensland: the koala speed zonetrial’ Wildlife Research 30: 419–426.Dique, D., Preece, H., and de Villiers, D.(2003d) Koalas in Pine Rivers Shire:Distribution, abundance andmanagement Queensland Parksand Wildlife Service, Brisbane.Dique, D. S., Preece, H. J., and deVilliers D. L. (in press) ‘The role ofresearch in the conservation andmanagement of urban koalaPhascolarctos cinereus populationsin south east Queensland’Australian Mammalogy.Dique, D. S., Preece, H. J., Thompson,J., and de Villiers, D. L., (2004)‘Determining the distribution andabundance of a regional koalapopulation in south eastQueensland for conservationmanagement’ Wildlife Research31: 109–117.Gordon, G. (1989) ‘Conservation ofkoala habitat’ Planning for Wildlife(Koala) Habitat Protection (editor R.A. Brown), Proceedings Workshop89, Department of GeographicalSciences, University of Queensland,pp. 16–26.Gordon G. (1991) ‘Estimation of the ageof the koala, Phascolarctos cinereus(Goldfuss) (Marsupialia:Phascolarctidae) from tooth wearand growth’ Australian Mammalogy14: 5–12.Gordon, G. (1996) ‘The health of zookoalas in south easternQueensland’ In Koalas, Researchfor Management: Proceedings ofthe Brisbane Koala Symposium(editor G. Gordon), World KoalaResearch Inc., Corinda, pp. 154–161.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6101

Gordon, G., Brown, A. S., and Pulsford,T. (1988) ‘A koala (Phascolarctoscinereus Goldfuss) populationcrash during drought and heatwaveconditions in south westernQueensland’ Australian Journal ofEcology 13: 451–462.Gordon, G. and McGreevy, D. G. (1978)‘The status of the koala inQueensland’ The Koala:Proceedings of the TarongaSymposium (editor T. J. Bergin),Zoological Parks Board of NewSouth Wales, Sydney, pp. 125–131.Gordon, G., McGreevy, D. G., andLawrie, B. C. (1990a) ‘Koalapopulations in Queensland: majorlimiting factors’ Biology of theKoala (editors A. K. Lee, K. A.Handasyde, and G. D. Sanson),Surrey Beatty & Sons, Sydney,pp. 85-95.Gordon, G., McGreevy, D. G. andLawrie, B. C. (1990b) ‘Koalapopulation turnover and malesocial organization’ Biology of theKoala (editors A. K. Lee, K. A.Handasyde, and G. D. Sanson),Surrey Beatty & Sons, Sydney,pp. 189–192.Gordon, G. and Hrdina, F. (2005) ‘Koalaand possum abundance inQueensland during the harvestperiod, 1906–1936’ AustralianZoologist 33: 69–99.Hasegawa, M. (1995) Habitat utilisationby koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)at Point Halloran, Queensland MScThesis, University of Queensland,Brisbane.Hindell, M. and Lee, A. K. (1987)‘Habitat use and tree preferences ofkoalas in a mixed eucalypt forest’Australian Wildlife Research 14:349–360.Howells, M. (2000) Living on the Edge:Along Tingalpa Creek — A history ofUpper Tingalpa, Capalaba andThorneside Redland Shire Council,Brisbane.Hrdina, F. and Gordon, G. (2004) ‘Thekoala and possum trade inQueensland, 1906–1936’ AustralianZoologist 32: 543–585.Hundloe, T. and Hamilton, C. (1997)‘Koalas and Tourism: An EconomicEvaluation’ Discussion PaperNumber 13 The Australia Institute,Canberra.Lawler, I. R., Foley, W. J., Eschler, B. M.,Pass, D. M. and Handasyde, K.(1998) ‘Intraspecific variation inEucalyptus secondary metabolitesdetermines food intake byfolivorous marsupials’ Oecologia116: 160–169.Lee, A. and Martin, R. (1988) The Koala:A Natural History New South WalesUniversity Press, Kensington.Martin, R. and Handasyde, K. (1999)The Koala: Natural History,Conservation and ManagementUniversity of New South WalesPress, Sydney.Melzer, A. (1995) Aspects of theecology of the koala, Phascolarctoscinereus (Goldfuss, 1817), in thesub-humid woodlands of centralQueensland PhD Thesis, Universityof Queensland, Brisbane.Melzer R.I. and J.M Clarke. eds (2000)QPWS Fire Management System.QPWS, Qld EnvironmentalProtection Agency.Melzer, A. and Lamb, D. (1994) ‘Lowdensity populations of the koala(Phascolarctos cinereus) in CentralQueensland’ Proceedings of theRoyal Society of Queensland 104:89–93.Melzer, A., Carrick, F., Menkhorst, P.,Lunney, D., and St John, B. (2000)‘Overview, critical assessment andconservation implications of koaladistribution and abundance’Conservation Biology 14: 619–628.Mitchell, P. (1990) ‘Social behaviourand communication of koalas’Biology of the Koala (editors A. K.Lee, K. A. Handasyde, and G. D.Sanson), Surrey Beatty & Sons,Sydney, pp. 151–171.Moore, B. D. and Foley, W. J. (2000) ‘Areview of diet and feeding selectionin koalas’ Australian Journal ofZoology 48: 317–333.Munks, S. A., Corkrey, R. and Foley, W.J. (1996) ‘Characteristics of arborealmarsupial habitat in the semi-aridwoodlands of northern Queensland’Wildlife Research 23: 185–195.Nattrass, A. E. O. and Fiedler, K. B.(1996) ‘Koala rescue — theperception and the reality’ InKoalas, Research for Management:Proceedings of the Brisbane KoalaSymposium (editor G. Gordon),World Koala Research Inc., Corinda,pp. 129–136.Patterson, R. (1996) ‘The distribution ofkoala in Queensland — 1986 to1989’ In Koalas, Research forManagement: Proceedings of theBrisbane Koala Symposium (editorG. Gordon), World Koala ResearchInc., Corinda, pp. 75–81.Phillips, B. (1990) Koalas: the littleAustralians we’d all hate to loseAustralian Government PublishingService, Canberra.Platt, S.J. (2002) How to plan wildlifelandscapes: a guide for communityorganisations Department ofNatural Resources andEnvironment, Melbourne.102

Preece, H., and Phinn, S. (2002)‘Counting koalas from space:integrating remote sensing, GISand traditional ecological surveytechniques’ In Proceedings of the11th Australasian Remote Sensingand Photogrammetry Conference2002 Remote Sensing andPhotogrammetry Association ofAustralasia, Canberra.Queensland Department of Main Roads(2000). Fauna Sensitive RoadDesign - Volume 1: Past andExisting Practices. QueenslandDepartment of Main Roads,Planning, Design and EnvironmentDivision. Brisbane.Ramsay, S. (1999). The ecology anddispersal patterns of juvenilekoalas, Phascolarctos cinereus, infragmented habitat. PhD Thesis,Monash University, Clayton,Victoria.Sharpe, L. (1984) The social behaviourof koalas at Phillip Island, VictoriaHonours Thesis, Monash University,Clayton.State Planning Policy 1/97Conservation of Koalas in the KoalaCoast Five Year Review.Environmental Protection Agency,Brisbane. www.epa.qld.gov.auSullivan, B. J. (2000) Estimating theabundance of broadscale lowdensity populations: koalas in themulgalands of south westQueensland PhD Thesis, Universityof Queensland, Gatton.Thomas, O. (1923) ‘On someQueensland Phalangeridae’ Ann.Mag. Nat. Hist. 9 (11): 246–250.White, N. A. (1999) ‘Ecology of thekoala (Phascolarctos cinereus) inrural south east Queensland,Australia’ Wildlife Research 26:731–744.White, N. A. and Kunst, N. D. (1990)‘Aspects of the ecology of the koalain southeastern Queensland’ InBiology of the Koala (editors A. K.Lee, K. A. Handasyde, and G. D.Sanson), Surrey Beatty & Sons,Sydney, pp. 109–116.Sherwin, W., Timms, P., Wilcken, J.,and Houlden, B. (2000) ‘Analysisand conservation implications ofkoala genetics’ ConservationBiology 14: 639–649.State Planning Policy 1/97Conservation of Koalas in the KoalaCoast, Environmental ProtectionAgency.Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6103

QueenslandNature Conservation (Koala)Conservation Plan 2006Subordinate Legislation 2006 No. ...made under theNature Conservation Act 1992ContentsPart 1PreliminaryPage1 Short title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Commencement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Relationship with declared management intent—Act, s 121 . . . . 34 Main purposes of plan and how they are to be achieved . . . . . . . 35 Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Part 2Division 1Provisions relating to koala districts and koala habitatareasKoala districts6 State includes koala districts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Objective for koala districts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Division 2Development in koala habitat areas8 Criteria applying to koala habitat areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Relevance of koala conservation criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Division 3Map for koala habitat areas10 Chief executive must prepare map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 711 Areas shown on map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 712 When map must be amended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 813 When map may be amended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 914 Map available for inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10V005_S04_0315_ISTOC.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am104

2Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006Part 3Clearing in particular areas15 Sequential clearing in koala district A or B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1016 Koala spotter needed for clearing in koala habitat area . . . . . . . . 11Part 4Restrictions on grant for licences, permits or otherauthorities for taking, keeping or using koalas17 Relationship with regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1218 General restriction on grant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1219 Restriction on grant of wildlife authorities allowing release ofkoalas into the wild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1320 Restriction on grant of wildlife exhibitor licence or rehabilitationpermit allowing release of koalas into the wild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1321 Restriction on grant of scientific purposes permit allowingrelease of koalas into wild . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Part 5Amendment of plan22 Amendment of plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Schedule 1 Koala districts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Schedule 2 Dictionary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18V005_S04_0315_ISTOC.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6105

s 1 3 s 4Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006Part 1Preliminary1 Short titleThis conservation plan may be cited as the NatureConservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006.2 CommencementThis conservation plan commences on 1 September 2006.3 Relationship with declared management intent—Act,s 121Section 121(2) 1 of the Act does not apply to this plan.4 Main purposes of plan and how they are to be achieved(1) The main purposes of this plan are—(a)(b)(c)to promote the continued existence of viable koalapopulations in the wild; andto prevent the decline of koala habitats, including byproviding for the rehabilitation of cleared or otherwisedisturbed koala habitats; andto promote future land use and development that iscompatible with the survival of koala populations in thewild.(2) The main purposes are to be achieved by—(a)(b)dividing the State into 3 koala districts based on themanagement strategies that are to be applied to eachdistrict; andprescribing the objective for each koala district; and(c) prescribing, for the SEQ regional plan, section 2.2.2,criteria against which assessable development in a koalahabitat area must be assessed; and1 Section 121 (Plan replaces interim or declared management intent) of the ActV005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am106

s 5 4 s 6Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(d)(e)(f)providing for the preparation of a map by the chiefexecutive to show koala habitat areas in the State; andprescribing requirements for clearing vegetation inparticular areas; andprescribing additional restrictions on the grant ofparticular licences or permits for koalas, including, inparticular, licences or permits allowing the release ofkoalas into the wild.5 Interpretation(1) The dictionary in schedule 2 defines particular terms used inthis plan.(2) Subject to subsection (1), and unless this plan providesotherwise, terms used in it have the meaning given in theWildlife Management Regulation.(3) To remove any doubt, it is declared that subsection (2) alsoapplies to the following, as applied to the WildlifeManagement Regulation under section 5 of that regulation—(a)(b)a definition under the Administration Regulation;a provision of the Administration Regulation that aidsthe interpretation of a term used in that regulation.Part 2Provisions relating to koaladistricts and koala habitatareasDivision 1Koala districts6 State includes koala districts(1) The State includes the following wildlife districts for koalas—(a) koala district A;V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6107

s 7 5 s 8Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b) koala district B;(c) koala district C.(2) A wildlife district may include 1 or more koala habitat areas.7 Objective for koala districtsThe objective for each koala district is to ensure, havingregard to the nature and extent of koala populations in thedistrict, appropriate measures are adopted to achieve thepurposes of this plan mentioned in section 4(1), includingmeasures that—(a)(b)(c)monitor koala populations in the district and threats totheir survival; andmonitor and review the effectiveness of conservationmeasures for koalas and koala habitats in the district;andprovide education and management strategies to helpmanage threats to the survival of koala populations inthe wild, including, for example, threats caused by dogattacks or vehicle strikes.Division 2Development in koala habitat areas8 Criteria applying to koala habitat areas(1) The koala management program contains criteria, called thekoala conservation criteria, applying to assessabledevelopment in a koala habitat area.(2) In this section—koala management program means the document called‘Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andManagement Program 2006-2016’, prepared by the chiefexecutive and held by the department.Note—A copy of the management program may be inspected, free of charge—(a) on the department’s website; andV005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am108

s 9 6 s 9Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b) during office hours on business days, at the department’s centraloffice or any of the department’s regional offices.9 Relevance of koala conservation criteria(1) This section—(a)(b)Notes—is included for information purposes only; anddoes not state all the matters that must be considered forassessing, under the Integrated Planning Act 1997, adevelopment application for development in a koalahabitat area.1 The Integrated Planning Act 1997, section 3.3.15, states the mattersagainst which a concurrence agency must assess a developmentapplication.2 The Integrated Planning Act 1997, section 3.5.4, states the mattersagainst which an assessment manager must assess a part of adevelopment application requiring code assessment.3 The Integrated Planning Act 1997, section 3.5.5, states the mattersagainst which an assessment manager must assess a part of adevelopment application requiring impact assessment.(2) Under the Integrated Planning Act 1997, particular SEQ localgovernments, as the assessment manager for a developmentapplication, must assess the application against the SEQregional plan.(3) The SEQ regional plan, section 2.2.2, provides for theassessment of development in a koala habitat area against thekoala conservation criteria.(4) Under the Integrated Planning Act 1997, the chief executive,as the assessment manager, or a concurrence agency, for adevelopment application, must assess the application againstthe laws that are administered by, and the policies that arereasonably identifiable as policies applied by, the chiefexecutive and that are relevant to the application.(5) Each koala conservation criterion represents a policy applied,under the Act, by the chief executive for the conservation ofkoalas or koala habitats in a koala habitat area.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6109

s 10 7 s 11Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(6) In this section—SEQ local government means a local government for an areain the SEQ region.Division 3Map for koala habitat areas10 Chief executive must prepare map(1) The chief executive must prepare a map (the State map) forthe State.(2) The State map may consist of a series of maps, including, forexample, a separate map in the series for each part of theState.11 Areas shown on map(1) The State map must show each urban koala area in the State.(2) The State map may also show—(a)(b)how the State is divided into koala districts; andkoala conservation areas and koala sustainability areasin the State.(3) If the State map shows koala conservation areas and koalasustainability areas in the State, the map must—(a)(b)show, as a koala conservation area, each part of the Stateshown as a koala conservation area on the SEQ map;andshow, as a koala sustainability area, each part of theState shown as a koala sustainability area on the SEQmap.(4) Subsection (3) does not limit the chief executive’s power toidentify, and show on the State map—(a)another part of the State in the SEQ region as a koalaconservation area if the part is shown as a koalaconservation area on an approved local government mapfor a local government’s area; orV005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am110

s 12 8 s 12Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)(c)another part of the State in the SEQ region as a koalasustainability area if the part is shown as a koalasustainability area on an approved local governmentmap for a local government’s area; ora part of the State that is not in the SEQ region as a koalaconservation area or koala sustainability area.12 When map must be amended(1) This section applies if—(a)(b)either—(i)(ii)the chief executive approves a local governmentmap as accurately showing koala habitat areas (theapproved map); orthe SEQ map or an approved local governmentmap for a local government’s area (each a relevantmap) is amended; andan area shown as a koala habitat area, or shown as notbeing a koala habitat area, on the State map isinconsistent with how the area is shown on—(i)(ii)Examples—the approved map; ora relevant map as amended.1 An area shown on the State map as an urban koala area isshown as a koala sustainability area on the SEQ map asamended.2 An area not shown as a koala habitat area on the State mapis shown as an urban koala area on a local government mapapproved by the chief executive as accurately showing koalahabitat areas.(2) The chief executive must, as soon as practicable, amend theState map to make it consistent with the approved map, or therelevant map as amended.(3) Subsection (4) applies—(a)if the State map is inconsistent with an approved localgovernment map for a local government’s area, and theV005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6111

s 13 9 s 13Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)nature of the inconsistency is that a part of the State (thechanged part of the State) is either—(i)(ii)shown as an urban koala area on the State map andnot shown as an urban koala area on the approvedlocal government map; orshown as an urban koala area on the approved localgovernment map and not shown as an urban koalaarea on the State map; anduntil the chief executive amends the State map undersubsection (2).(4) The State map is taken to have been amended in a way thatreflects how the changed part of the State is shown on theapproved local government map.Examples for subsection (4)—1 If the changed part of the State is shown as not being an urban koalaarea and no other category of koala habitat area on the approvedlocal government map, the State map is taken to show the changedpart as not being an urban koala area or any other koala habitat area.2 If the changed part of the State is shown as being a koalasustainability area on the approved local government map, the Statemap is taken to show the changed part as being a koalasustainability area.13 When map may be amended(1) The chief executive may amend the State map if the chiefexecutive reasonably believes further information aboutkoalas shows that—(a)(b)the existing classification of a part of the State as anurban koala area is not, or is no longer, appropriate; ora part of the State that is not a koala habitat area shouldbe classified as an urban koala area.(2) However, subsection (1) does not apply to a part of the Stateto which an approved local government map for a localgovernment’s area applies.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am112

10Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 200614 Map available for inspectionThe chief executive must make a copy of the State mapavailable for inspection by the public, free of charge—(a)(b)on the department’s website; 2 andduring office hours on business days, at—(i)(ii)the central office of the department; 3 andeach regional office of the department.Part 3Clearing in particular areas15 Sequential clearing in koala district A or B(1) A person clearing koala habitat trees in koala district A orkoala district B must ensure the clearing is carried out in away that complies with the sequential clearing conditions.Maximum penalty—120 penalty units.(2) This section applies in addition to any other requirementapplying to the clearing under an Act.(3) In this section—sequential clearing conditions means all of the followingconditions—(a)that clearing of trees is carried out in a way that ensureskoalas on the area being cleared (the clearing site) haveenough time to move out of the clearing site withouthuman intervention, including in particular, for clearingsites with an area of more than 3ha, by—(i)carrying out the clearing in stages; and2 At the commencement of this section, the department’s website was at.3 At the commencement of this section, the department’s central office was at 160Ann Street, Brisbane.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6113

11Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)(c)(ii)ensuring not more than the following is cleared inany 1 stage—(A)(B)for a clearing site with an area of 6ha orless—50% of the site’s area;for a clearing site with an area of more than6ha—3ha or 3% of the site’s area, whicheveris the greater; and(iii) ensuring that between each stage and the next thereis at least 1 period of 12 hours that starts at 6p.m.on a day and ends at 6a.m. on the following day,during which no trees are cleared on the site;that clearing of trees is carried out in a way that ensures,while the clearing is being carried out, appropriatehabitat links are maintained within the clearing site andbetween the site and its adjacent areas, to allow koalasliving on the site to move out of the site;that no tree in which a koala is present, and no tree witha crown overlapping a tree in which a koala is present, iscleared.16 Koala spotter needed for clearing in koala habitat area(1) This section applies to a person clearing, in a koala habitatarea, koala habitat trees that have a trunk with a diameter ofmore than 10cm at 1.3m above the ground.(2) The person must ensure the clearing is carried out in thepresence of a koala spotter who has the primary role oflocating koalas in the trees for the person.Maximum penalty—120 penalty units.(3) This section applies in addition to any other requirementapplying to the clearing under an Act.(4) In this section—koala spotter means a person who has demonstratedexperience in locating koalas in koala habitats or conductingfauna surveys.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am114

s 17 12 s 18Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006Part 4Restrictions on grant forlicences, permits or otherauthorities for taking, keepingor using koalas17 Relationship with regulations(1) The restrictions on the grant of a wildlife authority under thispart are in addition to the restrictions on grant applying to theauthority under the Administration Regulation and theWildlife Management Regulation.Notes—1 For the restrictions on grant under the Administration Regulation,see sections 30 and 31 of that regulation.2 For the restrictions on grant under the Wildlife ManagementRegulation—(a) see chapter 2, part 1, and chapter 3, parts 3 to 5, of thatregulation generally; and(b) for rehabilitation permits in particular, see section 208 ofthat regulation.18 General restriction on grantThe chief executive can not grant any of the following forkoalas—(a)(b)(c)(d)(e)(f)(g)a commercial wildlife licence;a recreational wildlife licence;a commercial wildlife harvesting licence;a recreational wildlife harvesting licence;a damage mitigation permit;a permit to keep protected wildlife;a collection authority to take and keep least concernanimals.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6115

s 19 13 s 20Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 200619 Restriction on grant of wildlife authorities allowingrelease of koalas into the wildThe chief executive can not grant a wildlife authority, otherthan a wildlife exhibitor licence, a rehabilitation permit or ascientific purposes permit, that allows the holder of theauthority, or a relevant person for the holder, to release intothe wild a koala that has been bred or kept in captivity.Note—Under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section 343(1)(a), it is anoffence for a person to release into the wild an animal that has been bredin captivity.However, under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section343(2)(a), the offence does not apply if the release is authorised underan Act, including a licence, permit or other authority granted under anAct.20 Restriction on grant of wildlife exhibitor licence orrehabilitation permit allowing release of koalas into thewild(1) The chief executive can not grant a wildlife exhibitor licenceor a rehabilitation permit authorising the holder of the licenceor permit, or a relevant person for the holder, to release akoala that has been taken from the wild into a part of the wildthat is not a prescribed natural habitat for the koala.Note—Under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section 343(1)(b), it is anoffence for a person to release an animal into an area of the wild that isnot a prescribed natural habitat for the animal.However, under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section343(2)(a), the offence does not apply if the release is authorised underan Act, including a licence, permit or other authority granted under anAct.(2) The chief executive can not grant a wildlife exhibitor licenceor a rehabilitation permit authorising the holder of the licenceor permit, or a relevant person for the holder, to release intothe wild a koala that has been bred in captivity unless—(a)the koala is the progeny of a koala that was taken fromthe wild; andV005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am116

s 21 14 s 21Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)the chief executive is reasonably satisfied the koala iscapable of surviving in the wild.Note for subsection (2)—Under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section 343(1)(a), it is anoffence for a person to release into the wild an animal that has been bredin captivity.However, under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section343(2)(a), the offence does not apply if the release is authorised underan Act, including a licence, permit or other authority granted under anAct.21 Restriction on grant of scientific purposes permitallowing release of koalas into wild(1) The chief executive can not grant a scientific purposes permitauthorising the holder of the permit, or a relevant person forthe holder, to release a koala that has been taken from the wildunless—(a)(b)Note—the koala is to be released into a prescribed naturalhabitat for the koala; orthe chief executive is reasonably satisfied the prescribedrelease conditions for the release of the koala aresatisfied.Under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section 343(1)(b), it is anoffence for a person to release an animal into an area of the wild that isnot a prescribed natural habitat for the animal.However, under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section343(2)(a), the offence does not apply if the release is authorised underan Act, including a licence, permit or other authority granted under anAct.(2) The chief executive can not grant a scientific purposes permitauthorising the holder of the permit, or a relevant person forthe holder, to release a koala that has been bred in captivityunless—(a)the chief executive is reasonably satisfied the prescribedrelease conditions for the release of the koala aresatisfied; orV005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6117

s 22 15 s 22Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)the chief executive is otherwise reasonably satisfied thekoala is capable of surviving in the wild.Note for subsection (2)—Under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section 343(1)(a), it is anoffence for a person to release into the wild an animal that has been bredin captivity.However, under the Wildlife Management Regulation, section343(2)(a), the offence does not apply if the release is authorised underan Act, including a licence, permit or other authority granted under anAct.Part 5Amendment of plan22 Amendment of planAn amendment of any of the following types may be made tothis plan by amendment under section 124(2)(c) 4 of the Act—(a) an amendment of section 8 or 9; 5(b)(c)(d)an amendment of a provision in part 2, division 3, 6 aboutthe State map;an amendment of a provision in part 3 7 about clearingkoala habitat trees;an amendment of schedule 2, definition koalaconservation area, koala sustainability area or urbankoala area, if the amendment is necessary because of anamendment of the SEQ map or an approved localgovernment map for a local government’s area;4 Section 124 (Amendment of plans) of the Act5 Section 8 (Criteria applying to koala habitat areas) or 9 (Relevance of koalaconservation criteria)6 Part 2 (Provisions about koala districts and koala habitat areas), division 3 (Map forkoala habitat areas)7 Part 3 (Clearing in particular areas)V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am118

s 22 16 s 22Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(e)an amendment that is consequential to an amendment,omission or insertion mentioned in paragraph (a), (b),(c) or (d).V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6119

17Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006Schedule 1Koala districtsschedule 2, definitions koala district A, koala district B and koaladistrict C1 Koala district AKoala district A consists of the areas of the following localgovernments—Beaudesert, Boonah, Brisbane, Caboolture, Caloundra, Esk,Gatton, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Kilcoy, Laidley, Logan, Maroochy,Noosa, Pine Rivers, Redcliffe, Redland, Toowoomba.2 Koala district BKoala district B consists of the areas of the following localgovernments—Biggenden, Bundaberg, Burnett, Cherbourg, Cooloola, CrowsNest, Gayndah, Hervey Bay, Isis, Kilkivan, Kolan, Maryborough,Miriam Vale, Murgon, Nanango, Perry, Tiaro, Woocoo.3 Koala district CKoala district C consists of the areas of the following localgovernments—Aramac, Atherton, Balonne, Banana, Barcaldine, Barcoo,Bauhinia, Belyando, Bendemere, Blackall, Booringa, Bowen,Broadsound, Bungil, Burdekin, Cairns, Calliope, Cambooya,Cardwell, Charters Towers, Chinchilla, Clifton, Dalby, Dalrymple,Douglas, Duaringa, Eacham, Eidsvold, Emerald, Etheridge,Fitzroy, Flinders, Gladstone, Goondiwindi, Herberton,Hinchinbrook, Ilfracombe, Inglewood, Isisford, Jericho, Johnstone,Jondaryan, Kingaroy, Livingstone, Longreach, Mackay, Mareeba,Millmerran, Mirani, Monto, Mount Morgan, Mundubbera, Murilla,Murweh, Nebo, Paroo, Peak Downs, Pittsworth, Quilpie,Rockhampton, Roma, Rosalie, Sarina, Stanthorpe, Tambo, Tara,Taroom, Thuringowa, Townsville, Waggamba, Wambo, Warroo,Warwick, Whitsunday, Woorabinda, Wondai, Yarraban.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am120

18Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006Schedule 2Dictionarysection 5(1)Administration Regulation means the Nature Conservation(Administration) Regulation 2006.approved local government map, for a local government’sarea, means a local government map for the area that—(a)(b)has been approved by the chief executive as accuratelyshowing koala habitat areas; andis included in—(i)(ii)the local government’s planning scheme; ora temporary local planning instrument made by thelocal government under the Integrated PlanningAct 1997, chapter 2, part 1, division 4.assessable development see the Integrated Planning Act 1997,schedule 10.assessment manager see the Integrated Planning Act 1997,section 3.1.7.clear see the Integrated Planning Act 1997, schedule 10.concurrence agency see the Integrated Planning Act 1997,schedule 10.development application see the Integrated Planning Act1997, schedule 10.koala—(a)(b)means a mammal of the species Phascolarctos cinereus;andincludes the reproductive material of a mammalmentioned in paragraph (a).koala conservation area means—(a)each part of the State shown on the SEQ map as a koalaconservation area; andV005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6121

19Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)Schedule 2 (continued)if a local government has an approved local governmentmap for its area—each part of the local government’sarea shown on the map as a koala conservation area.koala conservation criteria means the koala conservationcriteria mentioned in section 8.koala district means—(a)(b)koala district A; orkoala district B; or(c) koala district C.koala district A means the area described in schedule 1,section 1.koala district B means the area described in schedule 1,section 2.koala district C means the area described in schedule 1,section 3.koala habitat means—(a)(b)(c)a woodland where koalas currently live; ora partially or completely cleared area that is used bykoalas to cross from 1 woodland where koalas currentlylive to another woodland where koalas currently live; ora woodland where koalas do not currently live, if thewoodland—(i)(ii)primarily consists of koala habitat trees; andis reasonably suitable to sustain koalas.koala habitat area means—(a)(b)(c)a koala conservation area; ora koala sustainability area; oran urban koala area.koala habitat tree means a tree of any of the followinggenera—(a)Angophora;V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am122

20Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)(c)(d)(e)Corymbia;Eucalyptus;Schedule 2 (continued)Lophostemon;Melaleuca.koala sustainability area means—(a)(b)each part of the State shown on the SEQ map as a koalasustainability area; andif a local government has an approved local governmentmap for its area—each part of the local government’sarea shown on the map as a koala sustainability area.local government map means a map prepared by a localgovernment and showing koala habitat areas in the localgovernment’s area.prescribed natural habitat means—(a)(b)for a koala taken from the wild, or a koala that is theprogeny of a koala taken from the wild—(i)(ii)the area within 1km of where the koala was taken,but only if at least part of the area is koala habitat;orif subparagraph (i) does not apply—any koalahabitat to the extent it is within 5km of where thekoala was taken; orfor another koala—a koala habitat, research into whichshows the following—(i)(ii)the release of the koala into the koala habitat willnot adversely affect any species of wildlife in thekoala habitat;the genetic makeup of the koala is similar to thegenetic makeup of koalas currently living in thekoala habitat.prescribed release conditions, for the release of a koala,means all of the following conditions—(a)that the koala is to be released into a koala habitat;V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6123

21Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006(b)(c)(d)Schedule 2 (continued)that research about the koala and the koala habitat showsthe following—(i)(ii)the release of the koala into the koala habitat willnot adversely affect any species of wildlife in thekoala habitat;the genetic makeup of the koala is similar to thegenetic makeup of koalas currently living in thekoala habitat;that the release of the koala into the habitat is a keycomponent of the research project for which theapplication for the permit, under which the koala is to bereleased, is made;that the research project provides for the recapture of thekoala if the chief executive requires the recapture.SEQ map means map 5 of the SEQ regional plan.SEQ region means the SEQ region as described in theIntegrated Planning Act 1997, section 2.5A.2SEQ regional plan means the SEQ regional plan made underthe Integrated Planning Act 1997.State map see section 10(1).this plan means this conservation plan.urban koala area means—(a)(b)each part of the State shown on the State map as anurban koala area; andif a local government has an approved local governmentmap for its area—each part of the local government’sarea shown on the map as an urban koala area.Wildlife Management Regulation means the NatureConservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation 2006.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 am124

22Nature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006ENDNOTES1 Approved by the Governor in Council on . . .2 Notified in the gazette on . . .3 Laid before the Legislative Assembly on . . .4 The administering agency is the Environmental Protection Agency.V005_S04_0315_IS_.fm — July 6, 2006 10:15 amNature Conservation (Koala) Conservation Plan 2006 andM a n a g e m e n t P r o g r a m 2 0 0 6 —2 0 1 6125

Nature Conservation(Koala) Conservation Plan 2006and Management Program 2006 - 2016www.epa.qld.gov.au