About Gardens for Wildlife
Brimbank Council, volunteers and community members have come together to create a Brimbank Gardens for Wildlife program. Gardens for Wildlife encourages people to grow plants that attract native wildlife such as birds, butterflies and frogs.
Renters and property owners within Brimbank can apply for a free visit from trained volunteers who will give tips to improve your garden for wildlife.
A wildlife-friendly garden includes native plants and things such as rocks, ponds, and nest boxes, providing a safe and happy environment for local animals. By creating these habitats, residents contribute to the conservation of wildlife in our area. Every patch of wildlife habitat is important whether it’s a few pots, part of a small courtyard, the whole garden, or even your nature-strip.
The program is facilitated by Brimbank Council, with the support of dedicated and knowledgeable local volunteers known as ‘Garden Guides’. These passionate volunteers will assist residents to create vibrant ecosystems that benefit both wildlife and the community.
Why get involved?
- Make a difference in your own backyard.
- Help to protect local plants and animals.
- Connect with nature and your community.
- Learn new skills.
Brimbank has a remarkable diversity of native plants (flora) and animals (fauna), especially in our grasslands and along our waterways. Sadly, urbanisation has led to the loss of suitable habitats for native animals, putting many native species at risk of extinction. However, through our gardening efforts, we can improve the biodiversity of the Brimbank area, creating places of safety and refuge for native wildlife.
Plus, gardening is a great way to boost your physical and mental wellbeing, connect with nature, and engage with your neighbours and community.
How does it work?
- Register your interest for a garden visit (see below)
- Two trained garden guide volunteers will visit your garden for one hour at an agreed time. They will talk with you about what wildlife you would like to attract and the things you could do in your space.
- Garden visits are non-judgmental, and help to build knowledge, skills and confidence in caring for the land. The guides provide simple, practical advice that suits your garden space, no matter its size.
After the Garden visit, participants will receive:
- A written report with suggestions for your wildlife garden
- A voucher for a small selection of native plants from Newport Lakes Native Nursery
- Letterbox sticker identifying your commitment to wildlife gardening
- Selection of Gardens for Wildlife resources
Sign up for a free garden visit
Due to a high level of community interest, garden visit registrations are temporarily paused. Our volunteers are working through currently registered gardens. Please check back here in January 2026.
Become a volunteer garden guide
The Garden Guides who visit the gardens are made up of a team of volunteers who each have a passion for nature and conservation.
As a volunteer garden guide, you will be able to connect with like-minded people and learn new skills.
Contact environment@brimbank.vic.gov.au for more information. We will get in touch with you when we are accepting new volunteers.
Our partners
Brimbank City Council gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Gardens for Wildlife Victoria network and the founding program Knox Gardens for Wildlife.
Gardens for Wildlife Brimbank was established with support from Kororoit Creek Neighbourhood House, Newport Lakes Nursery and GREENLAB Iramoo.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the program please contact Council’s Conservation Programs officer, Ella Ryan via environment@brimbank.vic.gov.au
