As National Tree Day turned 30, Australia showed up

As National Tree Day turned 30, Australia showed up

By Liam Taylor  September 16th, 2026

Australians once again came together to care for their local environments this National Tree Day, with thousands of people across the country taking part in tree planting and nature care activities this year.

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Marking the 30th anniversary of National Tree Day, 775 sites were hosted across Australia in 2026, bringing together more than 34,000 volunteers who planted an incredible 441,220 trees, shrubs and grasses.*

The results are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together to take positive environmental action. This year’s plantings included almost 96,000 trees, alongside more than 176,000 shrubs and 169,000 grasses, helping to restore diverse habitats and support local biodiversity.

Schools also continued to play an important role, accounting for around 40 per cent of registered National Tree Day sites. A total of 292 schools took part from around the country, with thousands of students given the opportunity to connect with nature through hands-on activities.

Behind every National Tree Day event are passionate volunteers who give their time to make a difference. Whether they are restoring a local habitat, bringing their community together or helping young people learn about nature, their contribution is what makes National Tree Day possible.

Over 30 years, more than 5.2 million volunteers have now taken part in National Tree Day, contributing over 29 million plants being planted at more than 71,000 sites across Australia.

To everyone who planted, volunteered, coordinated an event, brought along their students, supported a local site or helped spread the word this year, thank you. Your time and effort are helping create healthier, greener communities and a better future for people and nature.

National Tree Day might be one day on the calendar, but the impact of the actions taken by Australians will continue to grow for years to come.

*2026 results are preliminary and current to 31 July 2026.

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Liam Taylor

Prior to joining Planet Ark Liam spent his time studying global environmental issues, travelling Southeast Asia on the cheap and working for a sustainable property management company in Bali, Indonesia. Joining the communications team at Planet Ark, he hopes to inspire positive environmental behaviour through effective and positive messaging.

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