Koala Conservation Centre

On Phillip Island, the Koala Conservation Centre is a unique and interactive experience where you can learn about one of Australia’s most loved animals, the koala. As part of Phillip Island Nature Parks, the centre is committed to conserving and protecting the koala population and providing a natural environment where you can see these amazing animals in their natural habitat. From elevated boardwalks to interactive displays, the Koala Conservation Centre lets you get up close to the koala’s life in the bush, all while supporting conservation.

Koala Sightings

The centre has great koala viewing, where you can see these amazing animals in the eucalyptus trees. Elevated treetop boardwalks let you see wild koalas at eye level, up close and personal as they eat, sleep and go about their day. Combine this with the natural beauty of the eucalypt woodland and you’ll have a koala experience you’ll never forget. The walkways are also wheelchair accessible and family friendly so it’s a great experience for all.

Natural Habitat of Koalas

The Koala Conservation Reserve is a natural habitat for koalas, with native eucalypt forests and Australian bushland. Eucalyptus grandis and Eucalyptus microcopies are the food and shelter for koalas who rely on these trees for survival. This environment is a safe haven for the koalas and supports a broader ecosystem, native birds and other Australian wildlife. This natural landscape on Phillip Island is the perfect habitat for koalas and other animals, free from the urban threats of roads and habitat loss.

Facts about the Koalas

The koalas at the centre are part of a large and well-managed population. There are female koalas and sometimes a joey, both of which can be seen during breeding season. Many of the koalas here have been rescued or need special care due to health issues like chlamydia in koalas, which is prevalent in the wild. The displays will give you an insight into these challenges and tell you about koalas’ special adaptations, their eucalyptus leaf diet and how they live in the trees.

What to do at the Conservation Centre

At the Koala Conservation Centre, you can walk the Tree-top Koala Boardwalk and see the koalas in their natural habitat. Woodland walks to experience the beauty of Australian bushland and interactive displays to learn about koalas. Ranger talks to share interesting facts about these amazing koalas and the threats they face – habitat loss, disease and climate change. There’s also a shop to purchase souvenirs and a Koala Eco-Explorer Tour if you want a guided experience.

Tree-top Boardwalks

The Tree-top boardwalks are one of the best parts of the Koala Conservation Centre. They take you through the eucalypt woodland, and you get to see the koala’s eye level. These elevated boardwalks allow you to see the koalas up close and personal, safely and minimally intrusive. For an immersive experience in nature and to see one of Australia’s most famous species, this walk in the treetops is a must-do.

Woodland Walks

As well as the tree-top boardwalks, the centre has woodland walks that go through lush bushland with many native and colourful bird species. These walking trails are great to see Australian wildlife in their natural habitat and are wheelchair accessible for all visitors. Along the paths you will find displays about the plants and animals of the region to enhance the learning experience.

Koala Breeding Program

The Koala Conservation Centre has a koala breeding program to maintain a sustainable koala population on Phillip Island. This program is important to the survival of the species as they face many challenges in the wild – habitat loss and disease. Dedicated volunteers and staff care for and monitor the koalas to keep the population healthy. During breeding season you may even see a joey, the centre’s commitment to koala conservation is ongoing.

Promoting Conservation

Our mission goes beyond just showing koalas. We actively promote koala conservation. Through eco-tourism activities and education programs, you will learn about the importance of koala habitats and conservation. We work with organisations like Wildlife Coast Cruises and Port Macquarie Koala Hospital to advance conservation and rehabilitation. Every visit helps fund these initiatives, so you are part of a bigger effort to save this icon and prevent the decline of the koala population.

Getting Here

Koala Conservation Reserve is located off Phillip Island Road, 90 minutes from Melbourne. You can drive to the island via the bridge from San Remo or take a guided tour that includes transport to the reserve. If you want to combine experiences, nearby attractions like Phillip Island Chocolate Factory and Maru Koala & Animal Park have family friendly activities. More info at the Enquiry Desk.

When to Get Here

Koala Conservation Centre is open daily, with extended hours during peak and school holidays. Best time to see koalas is early morning or late afternoon. Seasonal events like ranger talks and special tours are on throughout the year, so book tickets in advance as part of your Phillip Island tour. We have wheelchair accessible trails and trails for people with different mobility needs so everyone can enjoy the attraction.