20 new plant and animal species have been added to Australia’s list of threatened wildlife for the first time.
The newly listed species include a range of plants, lizards, sea snakes, crayfish, and fish. They’re now subject to strict environmental protections.
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said invasive pests and weeds were the biggest threats to these species.
In total, 2,138 species across Australia are listed for protection.
Australia’s threatened wildlife
The Gibraltar Range Waratah is a relative of the official flower of NSW.
It’s joined on the list by several marine species, plants, and two different species of geckos. The King Island scrub complex ecosystem was also listed as a threatened ecological community.
Once a species is listed as threatened under national environment law, it is subject to stronger protections. For example, the Government must approve any proposed housing or mining projects that may impact the species.
The Government said the biggest threats to Australian species are invasive species (like weeds, and cat and pig populations) and the ongoing effects of the Black Summer bushfires.
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said: “It’s hard to imagine that the Gibraltar Range waratah – a symbol of our nation – is under threat in Australia from disease and predators.”
ACF
The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) said the new additions to the list emphasised the need for an independent national environmental protection agency to enforce stricter nature laws.
Last year, ACF analysis revealed that 2023 had the highest number of additions to the threatened species list since it was established.
Acting ACF CEO Paul Sinclair said: “Every day and every decision matters for our wildlife. Further delays to nature law reform risk more extinctions.”
