Griffith University supports the Sustainable Development Goals

Half of the habitat of Australia’s highly imperilled narrow-range species is outside protected areas

Dr Michelle Ward

Project Description

The study titled “Half of the habitat of Australia’s highly imperilled narrow-range species is outside protected areas” aimed to identify and map the remaining habitat of 305 Critically Endangered terrestrial and freshwater species across Australia. These species have very small geographic ranges and fewer than six habitat patches, making them especially vulnerable to extinction. Using expert input and government data, researchers refined habitat maps and assessed how much of this habitat lies outside protected areas. They found that nearly half—about 41,000 km²—is unprotected, and much of it overlaps with land suitable for agriculture, increasing the risk of habitat loss. The study provides a national blueprint for prioritising conservation action and supports Australia’s commitment to halt new extinctions by 2030.

Project Personnel and Beneficiaries

The study benefits Australia’s most threatened species by identifying where they live and highlighting the urgent need to protect their remaining habitat. It supports governments and policymakers by providing clear data to guide conservation decisions and land-use planning. It helps landholders and communities understand the value of biodiversity on their land and encourages stewardship.

Outcomes to Date

Researchers briefed the threatened species commissioner, as well as several state and federal teams, who will use this data to inform the expansion of the protected area estate.

Project Significance

The study is important because it provides the first national map of habitat for 305 Critically Endangered species with very limited ranges—many of which are at immediate risk of extinction. By identifying exactly where these species live and how exposed they are to threats, the study equips governments, landholders, and conservation groups with the data needed to act. It contributes to SDG 15 (Life on Land) through biodiversity protection, SDG 13 (Climate Action) by safeguarding climate-sensitive ecosystems, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaboration across universities, NGOs, and government agencies. The study also informs land-use planning aligned with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), helping Australia meet its commitment to halt new extinctions by 2030.

Co-authors
Martine Maron, Jeremy S. Simmonds, Mark Lintermans, Nick S. Whiterod, David G. Chapple, Hugh P. Possingham, Sarah M. Legge, Rachael V. Gallagherl, Brendan A. Wintle, Samantha Vine, Kita Ashman, Conrad J. Hoskin, Stephen T. Garnettj, John C.Z. Woinarski, Ben C. Scheele, Cerin Loane, James A. Fitzsimonsr, Romola R. Stewart, Ayesha I.T. Tulloch, Isabel T. Hyman, Kate Pearce, Allan H. Burbidge, Tarmo A. Raadik, Gerald Kuchling, Arthur Georges, Matthew West, Vanessa M. Adams, J.P. Emery, James E.M. Watson
Project start
2023
Project end
2025
Academic area
School of Environment and Science
Project location
  • Nathan
Project geographical impact
  • Local
  • National
  • QLD
Publication date
October 3, 2025
Last updated
12:08 pm, October 3, 2025