Australia is home to some of the most diverse landscapes and ecosystems on Earth — from vast deserts and ancient rainforests to rich floodplains, mangroves, and internationally significant wetlands. Each of these environments plays a unique and vital role in sustaining biodiversity, supporting threatened species, and keeping our communities and landscapes healthy.
As World Wetlands Day 2026 approaches on 2 February, we celebrate this diversity and recognise the deep cultural, ecological, and spiritual connections that wetlands hold.
This year’s theme — “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage” — highlights the timeless role of First Nations knowledge systems in caring for Country. For tens of thousands of years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have nurtured wetlands through sophisticated land, water, and fire management practices that continue to guide sustainable stewardship today.
At the National Landcare Network, we’re proud to stand alongside community Landcare groups across Australia who work collaboratively with First Nations communities, valuing their leadership, cultural knowledge, and expertise. Together, we’re strengthening the health of wetlands and all ecosystems — ensuring they remain thriving, resilient places for generations to come.
Learn more about World Wetlands Day and access resources here.