Our vision and values

The Botanic Gardens of Sydney is Australia’s oldest scientific institution. Our goal is to inspire and help people discover the power of plants and the inherent value they provide to our everyday lives. 

Our organisation is founded on a passion for botanical science and horticulture and enriched by its relationship with Traditional landowners.  

We recognise that our understanding of plants and their environment is informed by thousands of years of knowledge generated by First Nations peoples in plant taxonomy, ecology and ecosystem engineering. 

We believe in harnessing both First Nations and scientific perspectives in order to sustainably manage the landscapes of Australia.

We envisage a fair and sustainable world where people, communities and institutions are informed, inspired and motivated to recognise the power of plants and support their conservation.

How we’re contributing

We’re building this new world by advancing science, offering solutions to critical environmental challenges faced by all life on Earth, and improving the quality of people’s lives through joyous connections to our Botanic Gardens and The Domain.

Supported by First Nations people’s cultural and botanic knowledge, we strive to promote the deeper connection with Country and a broader appreciation of Australia’s unique flora.

Our work is organised across four pillars:

• Horticulture and conservation
• Science and research
• Education and outreach
• Engagement and partnerships

What drives our work

We have four core values that guide everything we do. We are:

• Innovative: Whether we’re solving an urgent environmental problem or developing a long- term program, we seek new solutions, chart new paths, and responsibly lead the way. 

• Imaginative: We leverage our creativity to drive engagement and enrich people’s experiences and connection to nature.  

• Curious: We’re open and eager to learn, discover and understand — it’s how we increase and share knowledge, and identify effective solutions.  

• Purposeful: The vision for the world we want to live in is our north star and we work every day with enthusiasm and dedication to achieve it.