5 THINGS WE NEED TO DO TO REVERSE AUSTRALIA’S EXTINCTION CRISIS

The dire state of the environment in Australia is undeniable. We rank first in mammal extinctions and are the only developed nation classified as a global deforestation hotspot. This ongoing destruction, exacerbated by catastrophic climate change, paints a concerning picture of our nation’s future if we don’t act now. A love for nature is ingrained in our national identity. Our bucket list beaches, ancient forests and wondrous wildlife are not just badges we wear with pride; they are essential for our survival. Our island continent is home to a treasure trove of diverse ecosystems, where even the smallest fungi are essential to maintaining the quality of life we love in this sunny country.

Despite increased awareness, the headlines are worsening. In 2022, koalas were officially classified as Endangered on the east coast, and soon after, the greater glider followed suit, with its population declining by 80% over the past two decades due to climate change, logging and bushfires.

Why we must Choose Nature now more than ever

We know our collective conservation efforts are powerful in slowing extinctions, restoring habitats and protecting nature. But as more species join the Endangered list each year than come off it, we know it’s not enough. Scientists using IUCN data, determined that simply addressing habitat loss is not enough to save Australian species. 

Below are five urgent policy asks that we need political leaders to commit to in order to protect our unique wildlife, restore natural habitats and tackle the climate crisis.

1. Invest 1% of the budget into nature to repair and recover Australia’s unique wildlife

Species are disappearing and forests are being destroyed at alarming rates across Australia. Yet, the government spends less than 10 cents for every $100 of our national budget on nature (less than 0.1%). An overwhelming majority—95% of all Australians—believe we need to increase this investment. WWF-Australia joins scientists and conservationists in calling for a commitment of at least 1% of the federal budget to nature protection, including investment for First Nations communities to care for Country. If Australia invested just 1% of the federal budget in biodiversity, we could halt the decline of nature by 2030. Every dollar counts.

2. Complete the reform of Australia’s nature laws

Australia’s nature laws are failing to protect our wildlife, pushing beloved species closer to extinction. Our environment laws need urgent reform, particularly in closing loopholes that allow logging in critical habitats. Despite 86% of Australians supporting stronger nature laws, vital reforms remain stalled, leaving our environment and threatened species in peril. An independent review of The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) concluded that it is outdated and ill-equipped to tackle Australia’s environmental challenges. Weak national laws, including exemptions for the logging industry, enable the destruction of vital habitats for iconic species. Without reform our nature laws will continue to push wildlife to the brink of extinction. Every moment counts. WWF-Australia is calling on all leaders to make stronger, fit-for-purpose nature policy laws a national priority.

3. Lead global and regional ocean protection to protect marine animals and coastal communities

Australia's oceans are teeming with diverse marine life, but severe threats such as plastic pollution, global warming and overfishing are devastating ecosystems and coastal communities. Urgent and coordinated action is needed to protect our oceans and their wildlife.

WWF-Australia is advocating for stronger measures to protect marine habitats and create safe pathways for key marine animals to thrive and migrate. A healthy ocean supports people, nature and the planet, and it's time for Australia to play a leadership role in ocean conservation.

4. Build an economy that protects nature instead of harming it

Nature underpins our livelihoods, yet it’s under threat like never before. Australia's economy plays a significant role in the degradation of nature. Current economic and financial frameworks often incentivise practices that harm the environment rather than protect it. This cycle cannot continue. WWF-Australia is committed to transforming the economic rules of the game to make nature protection an integral part of how we operate. By assigning value to nature, we can pave the way for a future where our environment, communities and businesses thrive. The incoming Australian Government must address the economic incentives that contribute to nature loss. And instead, align financial incentives with outcomes that create a nature-positive economy.

5. Replace fossil fuels with renewable energy to achieve a safe and stable climate

Climate change is moving faster than we are, affecting our lives with more extreme heatwaves, bushfires, floods and storms. Australia has now experienced its hottest decade (2011-2020) and 2024 marked the hottest year on record, highlighting the pressing need for action. The intensity and frequency of these extreme weather events will only get worse. We must take immediate steps to keep global warming below 1.5°C, as committed to in the Paris Agreement. With Australia dangerously off course on climate action, WWF-Australia is urging the government to halt the approval of new coal, oil and gas projects and instead embrace Australia’s sun, wind and critical resources to transition to renewable energy. It’s vital that this change is inclusive, ensuring workers, communities and First Nations peoples lead and benefit from the transition.

How you can help?

Australia is at a crossroads, grappling with one of the highest rates of biodiversity loss globally. With over 2,000 native species at risk of extinction, the time for action is now. Nature is the core of our nation’s well-being, economy and a sustainable future. The priorities outlined above must become a national focus, uniting policymakers, conservationists and nature lovers in a shared goal: Choose Nature.

You can help by sending a message to your political leaders today, urging them to Choose Nature.

Nature powers our lives. Protect it for tomorrow.