Diplomats with these koalafications don't come cheap.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop could barely contain her glee when she was filmed with the furry foursome of Paddle, Chan, Pelita and Idalia at the launch of Singapore Zoo's new koala exhibit last week.

Koala diplomacy: Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop. Credit:Getty Images

But Australian taxpayers might not be so happy to learn that the diplomatic donation – made to mark 50 years of Australia-Singapore relations – cost them $133,100.

It's a hefty price tag given the eucalyptus-loving envoys are only on loan for up to 10 months. It covers the cost of quarantine and medical tests, documentation and training for Singapore Zoo staff. It also covers the occasional check-up by Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary staff.