Katoomba Group

The Katoomba Group is a global network hosted by Forest Trends that brings together people working to mobilize public funding and private capital for nature conservation and restoration. Its work also emphasizes empowering Indigenous and local communities. Established in Sydney and Katoomba in April 2000, the group has convened 28 meetings across 16 countries, creating opportunities to share ideas and advance practical approaches to conservation finance.

Members have contributed to the development of payments and markets for forest carbon and other ecosystem services, major environmental policy reforms, and conservation finance companies. The group also provides thought leadership on building a nature-positive future. Its activities include convening summits and events, sharing publications, and supporting dialogue on environmental investment and policy. In October 2024, its 25th Anniversary Katoomba Summit in Sydney was intended to inform the Global Nature Positive Summit, celebrate progress and lessons, and identify future priorities. The Katoomba Group’s work connects conservation, finance, policy, and community empowerment to support efforts to protect and restore nature.