Mission Statement

The mission of the Australian Wildlife Conservancy is the effective conservation of all Australian animal species and the habitats in which they live.

Australia''s Biodiversity Crisis

Australia is one of only 17 countries recognised as "mega-diverse", meaning we support a significant proportion of the world''s biodiversity.

Over 80% of our mammals, reptiles and flowering plants are endemic (found only in Australia).

However, the destruction and fragmentation of habitat, particularly as a result of clearance of vegetation for agriculture, and the impact of feral animals and invasive weeds has had a substantial impact on our biodiversity.

Australia has the worst mammal extinction rate in the world. Altogether, 27 mammal species have become extinct since the arrival of European settlers a little more than 200 years ago. Nearly 25% of our remaining mammal species are threatened with extinction.

Australia has more threatened reptile species than any other country in the world. Nearly 15% of our bird species are also threatened with extinction.

More than 500 vascular plants are listed as endangered or vulnerable.

What Does AWC Do?

Establishing Sanctuaries
AWC acquires land, and works with other landholders, to establish sanctuaries for the conservation of threatened wildlife and ecosystems. AWC now owns 21 sanctuaries covering over 2.5 million ha (6.2 million acres) in places such as north Queensland, the Kimberley, western New South Wales, Northern Territory and the forests of south western Australia.

AWC aims to ensure that its sanctuaries act as ''catalysts'' for broader landscape scale conservation efforts. Accordingly, AWC works closely with its neighbours to also promote conservation beyond the borders of each AWC sanctuary.

Implementing Practical, On-Ground Conservation Programs
AWC is distinguished by its extraordinary commitment to the implementation of practical, on-ground conservation programs. Over 80% of AWC’s staff are based in the field where they implement programs including feral animal control, weed eradication, fire management and translocation of threatened species. A commitment to such programs is critical if the biodiversity on AWC sanctuaries is to be effectively protected.

Conducting Scientific Research
AWC works in partnership with universities, museums, the CSIRO and a range of other science organisations to conduct strategic research on key issues affecting Australian wildlife. For example AWC has PhD students undertaking research projects at Mornington, Faure Island and Scotia sanctuaries.

Public Education
AWC hosts visitor''s programs at some of our sanctuaries to promote public awareness of the plight of Australia’s threatened wildlife.