Chair, Australian Koala Foundation
Deborah Tabart OAM, known to many as the Koala Woman, has dedicated almost four decades to protecting Koalas and the habitat they depend upon. What began as a request to help raise funds in the late 1980s became a lifelong mission, driven by determination, courage and an unshakeable belief that Koalas deserve a future in the wild.
As Chair of the Australian Koala Foundation, Deborah has grown a small volunteer organisation into a globally respected voice for Koala conservation. The plight of Koalas has been taken from the bush to the world stage, holding governments to account for the protection of Koala habitat.
Saving Koalas means saving trees. Without habitat, there can be no Koalas — a message captured in the world recognised phrase, ‘No Tree, No Me’. This principle has guided the Foundation’s work, from pioneering world leading, scientific, Koala habitat mapping to campaigning for stronger laws to protect Australia’s precious bushland for Koalas and all wildlife.
The journey has not been without resistance, setbacks and criticism, but Deborah has never walked away. Recognition came in 2008 with the Order of Australia Medal (OAM), yet accolades have never been her motivation. The commitment remains because Koalas need a voice.
In 2026, as the Australian Koala Foundation celebrates 40 years, and the vision remains as strong as ever — to see Koalas thriving in the wild, with secure habitat protected for generations to come.
Deborah is more than an advocate. A champion for Koalas (and the millions of species that live within its geographic range) who cannot speak for themselves. She is proof that real change comes from standing firm, asking hard questions, and never giving up.
