Queensland koala population hangs in balance

Queensland environment minister says he expects results from a new expert koala panel within four months of its existence.

For the first time in more than 70 years a koala has been spotted in Kosciuszko National Park. (AAP)

The future of South East Queensland's koala population hangs in the balance after a report revealed populations in some areas had declined by as much as 80 per cent.

Queensland Environment Minister Steven Miles announced on Saturday a panel of experts would be appointed to find ways to better protect koalas.

Dr Miles made the announcement following a University of Queensland report that claimed koalas living in and around Brisbane were at risk of extinction.

The government is yet to decide how many people will be appointed to the panel, but the first meeting is expected to take place in the next month.

Dr Miles said he wanted to see some results within four months of the panel's existence.