URGENT: Lola the Koala Stolen From Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo's Beloved Koala "Lola" Kidnapped From Her Exhibit — Police Investigating, Public Urged to Come Forward

By Australia Zoo Security & Queensland Police 14 mins ago

Australia Zoo is devastated to confirm that Lola, our beloved 3-year-old female koala, was taken from her exhibit sometime during the early hours of this morning. Staff arriving for the morning feed at 5:45 AM discovered that Lola's enclosure had been broken into and she was gone.

Queensland Police and Australia Zoo security are actively investigating the incident. CCTV footage is being reviewed and the zoo grounds have been thoroughly searched. This is being treated as a criminal matter.

Lola photographed at Australia Zoo — Please help bring her home

"We are absolutely heartbroken. Lola is not just an animal in our care — she is family. She needs specialised veterinary attention and a very specific diet of eucalyptus leaves. Whoever has taken her, please — she will not survive without proper care. We are begging you to do the right thing."

— Australia Zoo Management

Lola has been a resident of Australia Zoo since she was rescued as an orphaned joey in 2023. She is a favourite among visitors and staff alike, known for her gentle nature and her habit of dozing off in the most photogenic positions. She was in perfect health at her last veterinary check just three days ago.

Lola the koala in her exhibit at Australia Zoo

Lola in her exhibit — If you recognise her, please contact authorities immediately

Police believe the break-in occurred between 1:00 AM and 4:30 AM. The perpetrator or perpetrators gained access through a rear service gate and appear to have used tools to cut through the enclosure fencing. Investigators are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen suspicious activity around the zoo during those hours, or anyone who may have been offered a koala for sale.

Koalas are a protected species under Australian law. The illegal taking of a koala carries severe penalties including up to 5 years imprisonment and fines exceeding $500,000.

Help us bring Lola home

If you have any information, please contact authorities immediately. All tips can remain anonymous.

Queensland Police: 131 444 (Quote Reference: QP-2026-0220-BK)
Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000
Email: wildlife.crime@police.qld.gov.au
Australia Zoo Tip Line: security@australiazoo.com

Australia Zoo is offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads directly to Lola's safe return. No questions asked.

"Dad always taught us that wildlife warriors never give up. We will not rest until Lola is found and brought home safely. If you know anything — anything at all — please come forward. Do it for Lola."

This is an ongoing investigation. We will update this page as new information becomes available. Please share this article widely to help bring Lola home.

Share this page. Spread the word. Help us find Lola.

$50 Bronze Adoption
$100 Silver Adoption
$250 Gold Adoption
$500 Platinum Adoption
$10,000 Ultimate Adoption

Adoption Packages

$50 Bronze Adoption

$100 Silver Adoption

$250 Gold Adoption

$500 Platinum Adoption

$10,000 Ultimate Adoption