Koalas are protected by law in South Australia under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. Protecting and managing koalas is a complex task, particularly in urban environments.

In the Adelaide Hills, Adelaide metropolitan area and Mount Lofty Ranges there have been increased sightings of koalas, particularly during breeding season when males are very noisy, and during heatwaves when they come down from trees.

Koalas appear to be adapting to life in the suburbs and can successfully negotiate many urban hazards.

They are highly territorial and will happily live their entire lives in the same place. It can be very stressful for koalas to be captured and relocated from their established territory. It is best to leave them alone in their natural environments.

If you find a sick, injured or orphaned koala you should contact your local wildlife rescue organisation, or a local veterinarian, as soon as possible.

The following information sheets explain when koalas may need a helping hand: