The New South Wales government has unveiled plans for the Great Koala National Park, a 475,000-hectare reserve designed to protect around 12,000 koalas and various other threatened species. This initiative combines existing protected areas with additional state forest land and includes a moratorium on native forest logging. The government has allocated $140 million for the project, which aims to enhance biodiversity and promote ecotourism. However, the plan has sparked controversy, particularly among timber workers who face job losses. Critics argue that the initiative prioritizes environmental concerns over economic stability for local communities. The park's establishment is contingent on the approval of a carbon credit scheme, with legislation expected to be finalized by 2026. The decision reflects a broader shift in Australian forest policy, balancing ecological needs with political pressures from various stakeholders.