The Queensland government has approved Dreamworld’s multimillion-dollar expansion, despite concerns from environmental groups over the project's potential impact on the area's koala population.
The approved 55.3-hectare masterplan covers land including and adjacent to Dreamworld and WhiteWater World.
It includes the continued expansion of both parks, as well as new eco-tourism experiences such as viewing platforms, boardwalks and guided tours, as well as tourist attractions, theme park rides, entertainment venues and accommodation options.
Additionally, the development includes residential elements and conditions to ensure that the local road network is upgraded as works progress on the site.
Deputy Premier of Queensland Jarrod Bleijie said: "This approval gives Dreamworld the certainty it needs to invest in its future, create jobs and secure this iconic Queensland destination for generations to come.
"Queensland is open for business again, and we’re backing projects that create jobs, attract investment, increase housing supply and strengthen our tourism industry."
Dreamworld CEO Greg Yong said the project "stands out as one of the most compelling mixed-use development opportunities in the country".
Despite this week's approval, the masterplan has raised concerns about its potential impact on the area's koala population, with some of the land near the proposed expansion occupied by wild koalas.
"Vitally important koala habitat"
Anthony Gough, acting director of the Queensland Conservation Council, said in a statement: "This Dreamworld expansion is a nightmare for our iconic koalas, who are suffering death by a thousand cuts in south east Queensland.
"This area has previously been identified by local conservationists as vitally important koala habitat that needs to be protected," he added.
"In 2025, surveys confirmed 68 koalas within a 2km radius alone in this area, and further development would directly threaten the survival of any remaining koalas."
The Queensland Conservation Council is calling for the project to be referred for assessment under the Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.
"We urge Dreamworld to rethink their plan to clear this important koala habitat and call on the federal government to intervene and ensure this project is properly assessed under Commonwealth law," said Gough.
