Urban platypus populations in the Hawkesbury-Nepean River are under immense pressure, with ongoing research revealing the urgent need for conservation efforts. Dr. Michelle Ryan, the Hawkesbury-Nepean Waterkeeper and Senior Lecturer at Western Sydney University emphasised the critical nature of the situation. “Urban platypus populations are under immense pressure. The federal government’s investment is a major step forward in conserving these critical habitats across our catchment areas,” Dr. Ryan said.

Highlighting the broader environmental challenge, Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek noted that “nearly half of all nationally listed threatened animals and a quarter of our threatened plants occur in urban areas. We need to act now to protect them.” This pressing need for action has led to Western Sydney University securing a $1 million grant from the Albanese Labor Government. The funding, part of the Urban Rivers and Catchment Program, will support the 'Resilient Rivers for Resilient Hawkesbury Platypus Populations' project over the next three years.

The initiative aims to establish a network of 'Platypus Parks' along the Hawkesbury-Nepean River and its tributaries, creating protected areas that will serve as vital habitats for the platypus. The project, led by Western Sydney University in collaboration with the Hawkesbury-Nepean Waterkeeper Alliance, will involve First Nations communities, local landholders, and various community groups.

Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman welcomed the funding, stressing the importance of local expertise in driving these conservation efforts. “This $1 million investment, delivered through the Hawkesbury Environment Network (HEN) and involving Western Sydney University, ensures that our local, world-leading platypus experts are at the forefront of efforts to protect our waterways,” she said.

The project will allocate sixty percent of the funding to on-ground initiatives aimed at enhancing habitat connectivity and improving riparian health. Community involvement will be a cornerstone of the project, with plans for free events and workshops to engage the public in conservation activities.

As part of a broader $200 million commitment by the federal government to restore and protect urban rivers and waterways, this project underscores the urgent need to protect vulnerable species in urban environments. Local groups such as the Cattai Hills Environment Network, Streamwatch, and the Hawkesbury-Nepean Landcare Network will play key roles in the initiative, with additional support from Local Land Services Greater Sydney.

Brad Moore, Senior Land Services Officer for Aboriginal Communities,highlighted the significance of First Nations participation, stating, "This project acknowledges the importance of First Nations voices in managing local waterways, which are vital for the platypus and other wildlife to thrive."

With work set to begin later this year, the Hawkesbury District is on the path to securing a brighter future for its unique and threatened platypus populations, ensuring these iconic creatures continue to inhabit the river for generations to come.