Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

The site has evolved into a highly valued civic space, offering both passive and active recreation while maintaining a significant living collection of plants and trees. Recognised for its historic, scientific, architectural, aesthetic and social values, the gardens hold state and local cultural heritage significance. It was among the first places listed on the Queensland Heritage Register in 1989.

Brisbane City Council engaged GML Heritage and Architectus Conrad Gargett to prepare an updated Conservation Management Plan (CMP). The CMP provides a consolidated framework to guide the ongoing care, use and conservation of the gardens over the next decade.

The plan supports Council in its role as steward of the site by ensuring that decisions are informed by a clear understanding of the gardens’ heritage values. It includes updated historical research, a revised assessment of significance, and practical conservation policies.

Key objectives of the CMP included assessing cultural heritage significance, identifying risks and management issues, and establishing policies to protect and enhance the site over time. It also outlines prioritised actions for conservation, maintenance and repair, alongside strategies to support sustainable and compatible future uses. Importantly, the CMP addresses climate change, providing guidance to manage flood risk and build resilience while maintaining the gardens’ cultural and environmental values.

Designed as a practical tool, the CMP supports the long-term conservation of the gardens while enabling their continued evolution as a valued public landscape for Brisbane’s community and visitors.