Koalas are found across much of Victoria wherever there are suitable eucalypt species and adequate rainfall. They prefer particular species of trees, including:

• Eucalyptus viminalis (Manna Gum)
• Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Red Gum)
• Eucalyptus globulus (Blue Gum)
• Eucalyptus ovata (Swamp Gum)

Koalas also use other species less frequently, with preferences varying by region. These include: Yellow Stringybark (Eucalyptus muelleriana); Mountain Swamp Gum (Eucalyptus camphora); Mountain Grey Gum (Eucalyptus cypellocarpa); Candlebark (Eucalyptus rubida).

Although their diet is mostly eucalypt leaves, koalas are sometimes found sheltering in pine plantations during bad weather or using these areas to move between preferred habitats.

Interwoven with – and alongside – HVP’s 170,000 hectares of plantations are 48,000 hectares of private native forest that we manage for conservation. These areas of different purpose help maintain habitat connectivity across the broader landscape.

We also protect riparian corridors in our plantations, providing shelter, travel routes and food for koalas and other wildlife. Adding to these existing connections, indigenous revegetation corridors are progressively being planted along sensitive streams – to further enhance habitat quality and connection over time.

The health of koalas is an important part of our approach to sustainable plantation growing and native forest management. Our team lives and works across Victoria, and we understand the importance of protecting native wildlife.