Bushfires raging across the east coast of Australia have intruded on koala habitats, taking a toll on the population.

In fires burning near Port Macquarie up to 30 per cent of the koala population has been lost.

Port Macquarie Koala Hospital has been working hard to rehabilitate koalas suffering severe burns and dehydration.

The government has pledged $6 million to save the marsupial and rebuild its habitat.

Environment Minister Sussan Ley tells John Stanley the impact on wildlife is severe.

“The fires are blazing through huge ridges of country.

“They are a fascinating animal and they’ll get through this.”

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Image: Getty/Nathan Edwards