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.
Our Director
Michael Harvey was appointed as the tenth Director of the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia in July 2021.
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.
Adelaide Botanic Gardens Foundation
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
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 vision
Our vision is a community inspired to actively contribute to the sustainability of our world.
Through our work in realising this vision, the Botanic Gardens and State Herbarium of South Australia will be recognised as world-class in botanical sciences, collections and conservation, influential in leading changes in humanity, and a creative and collaborative institution that advances thinking through experimental approaches.
Our mission
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.
Our science is vital to support our community’s resilience and sustainability, and it underpins evidence-based decisions that inform effective legislation, policies, education, management and land use practices.
We engage with the wider community to share stories about plants and enhance understanding and appreciation of the importance of plants in sustaining life, and as a key part of cultural identity. Our places provide unique experiences and learning opportunities for visitors, and create an urban oasis of peace and tranquillity.
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