$1 million in funding has been pledge to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital under a plan to support koala populations in South East Queensland and Northern NSW.

The commitment is part of a $6 million initiative which would also provide grants to protect koala habitats in the region.

It will include on ground action to protect koala habitat areas, enhance the corridors that connect local populations and funding for two other wildlife hospitals.

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Doctor Michael Pyne, Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Senior Veterinarian said the contribution will make such a difference in the fight to save our koalas.

“Our wild koalas are in crisis. This incredibly generous contribution will allow Currumbin Wildlife Hospital to keep up with the demands of the ever growing wildlife admissions, now admitting almost 500 koalas and well over 11,000 wildlife patients every year,” Dr Pyne said.

“Currumbin Wildlife Hospital is overflowing with patients, this contribution will allow us to upgrade our facilities to better manage the ever growing patient admissions.”

Gold Coast MP Karen Andrews was on hand to make the announcement on Tuesday, as part of a Coalition election promise.

“The team at the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital do an incredible job treating, rehabilitating and releasing sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife and I’ve been very proudly campaigning on their behalf,” Minister Andrews said.

“The koala is a national symbol and this program would play a key role in their protection,” Ms Andrews added.

The funding will also help private landholders to better protect, manage and restore habitat areas, support community education and engagement, and actions to reduce vehicle strikes and dog attacks.