The Hon. Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water; The Hon. Meryl Swanson, Member for Paterson, Joint Media Release, 14 April 2026
The future of Australia’s koalas is being reshaped in Port Stephens, with groundbreaking, world-leading research now underway at the Port Stephens Koala Hospital – made possible by a $3 million election commitment delivered by the Albanese Labor Government.
Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson MP, today visited the hospital to inspect progress on the cutting-edge project targeting two of the biggest threats to koalas: chlamydia and koala retrovirus.
Funded through the Australian Government’s Local Environmental Projects Prgram, the investement is powering a three-year research program that will study a cohort of 100 koalas using advanved diagnostic technology – including CT, X-Ray, ultrasound and qPCR blood analysis.
At the heart of the project is a state-of-the-art 128-slice CT scanner, enabling rapid, high-resolution, full-body imaging and detailed 3D modelling of koalas like never before.
This technology is a game-changer.
For the first time, researchers will be able to establish species-specific benchmarks for koala health and disease – critical to early detection, improved treatment, and ultimately, finding a cure.
The scanner also allows koalas to be imaged with minimal handling and without sedation, significantly reducing stress and risk to the animals while improving safety for handlers.
The funding has also enabled the recruitment of specialist veterinary staff, expanded facilities, and ongoing operation of critical clinical equipment – ensuring the hospital continue its vital work through to the project’s competion in March 2028.
Importantly, findings from the program will be shared nationally, contributing to broader efforts to protect and recover koala populations across Australia.
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt:
“We’re pleased to support the important work being done at the Port Stephens Koala Hospital, for one of Australia’s most beloved species.
“The Albanese Government is investing in projects that help communities connect and care for nature through locally informed, place-based action.”
Quotes attributable to the Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson:
“This is a promise made and a promise delivered.
“Our $3 million investment is driving groundbreaking research right here in Port Stephens that could change the future for koalas across Australia.
“With this funding, Port Stephens Koala Hospital now has the tools, the people, and the capability to lead the way in koala conservation. This is about ensuring future generations can see koalas thriving in the wild – not just in history books.”
