The Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia is a State Government statutory authority as defined by state legislation.
The Gardens, together with the State Herbarium, are governed by the Department for Environment and Water and the Board of the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium.
Michael brings 20 years of experience in the museum, culture and science sector to the role, with a particular focus on museums of science and natural history.
Michael has also held leadership positions across a number of other high profile organisations including the Australian Museum, the Australian National Maritime Museum, the Natural History Museum in London and at the British Council.
Most recently, Michael worked as Assistant Director and Chief Experience Officer at the Australian National Maritime Museum, a role that blended ocean science and sustainability, history and maritime archaeology, and First Nations and migration programs.
Michael’s past history is strongly linked to the natural history of our world and provides a specific focus on the intrinsic connections between nature, people and culture.
Michael has global experience spanning education and public programming, exhibition development, strategic planning and cultural leadership.
The Adelaide Botanic Gardens Foundation raises and administers community funds to assist the Gardens with its important work in scientific research and education, and the maintenance of living collections.
The Friends of the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide is a volunteer organisation that supports the Botanic Gardens of South Australia, offering guided walks, self-guided trails, tours and community events.
Our mission is to build an understanding and appreciation of the botanical world.
We manage living, cultural and preserved collections and use our science and research to improve understanding of the botanical world.
15 March 2024
The Board of the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium is very pleased to announce that the Director of the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia, Mr Michael Harvey, has been elected as the new Chair of the Council of Heads of Australian Botanic Gardens.
21 November 2023
Adelaide Botanic Garden has been announced as a 'Garden of the World Worth Travelling For in 2024' at the International Garden Tourism Awards.
