Tallebudgera Connection Road Koala Zone Trial

We are deeply committed to protecting native fauna and actively support initiatives and treatments aimed at reducing koala-vehicle collisions. Recognising our responsibility to safeguard vulnerable wildlife, we prioritise measures that mitigate risks to koalas on Queensland roads.

Tallebudgera Connection Road has been identified as a high-risk road for koala-vehicle collisions.

In response to public concerns about koala safety, new signage and speed reduction measures were trialled between July 2023 and January 2024, aligning with the koala breeding season. The success of this trial led to the extension of the koala zone initiative on Tallebudgera Connection Road for an additional 18 months.

Both trials demonstrated our commitment to evidence-based solutions, involving the establishment of a dedicated koala zone, comprehensive monitoring of vehicle speeds within the zone, and a rigorous assessment of the effectiveness of speed reduction measures.

The Koala Zone Trials were conducted along a 3km (approximately) section of Tallebudgera Connection Road from Valley Drive to Currumbin Creek Road, reflecting a proactive approach to protecting Queensland’s iconic wildlife.

Benefits

Improves safety

Key features

A 10km speed reduction to 50km/h between 6pm and 6am daily within the koala zone, Valley Drive to Currumbin Creek Road.
Installation of new speed signs, including active (LED flashing) signs and speed signs as you entered the koala zone.
Vehicle Activated Signs positioned on Tallebudgera Connection Road zone to alert drivers to their driving speed.
Police enforcement of koala zone speed limits.

Current status

The most recent evaluation, conducted in early 2025, demonstrated that motorists drove at reduced speeds within the koala zone, highlighting the effectiveness of the speed management strategies. Key findings from the evaluation include:

a 7% reduction in overall speeds up from 6% in early 2024
a 21% reduction in speeds above 60km/h up from 10% in early 2024
a 10% reduction in speeds during the 6pm to 6am period compared to pre-trial levels.

Given the positive outcomes of the trial, the koala signage will remain in place.

Data collection and analysis will continue to support ongoing monitoring of the koala zone's effectiveness.