NSW Government
Environment and Heritage

Bioregions

Bioregions are relatively large land areas characterised by broad, landscape-scale natural features and environmental processes that influence the functions of entire ecosystems.

A panoramic view of the Gwydir Wetlands Ramsar site, showcasing lush wetlands with diverse vegetation, reflecting water bodies, and a cloudy sky.
Gwydir Wetlands Ramsar site comprise a system of irregularly inundated wetlands associated with the Gwydir River in the North West Slopes region of north-eastern New South Wales, Australia.
Credit: Daryl Albertson/DCCEEW

The department has adopted a bioregional approach to conserving much of our biodiversity, in response to the need to work with large geographic scales and biological cycles to plan and achieve biodiversity conservation.

A low-angle view of tall trees shrouded in fog along the River walking track in Barrington Tops National Park. The towering trunks rise majestically into the mist, creating a serene and mysterious atmosphere in the lush forest.
Tall trees in the fog, River walking track, Barrington Tops National Park.
Credit: John Spencer/DCCEEW
About bioregions

Bioregions capture the large-scale geophysical patterns across Australia.

A close-up view of a Xanthorrhoea grass tree at Muogamarra Nature Reserve, showcasing a dense cluster of long, slender leaves that radiate from the center.
Xanthorrhoea grass tree Muogamarra Nature Reserve.
Credit: Michael Van Ewijk/DCCEEW
Framework

Australian bioregions were mapped by the federal government and this produced the Interim Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia.

A vibrant field of Swainsona adenophylla flowers in the Mitchell Grassland of the Darling Riverine Plains Bioregion, featuring clusters of purple and white blooms. The scene is set against a clear blue sky with scattered clouds, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere.
Swainsona adenophylla dominated Mitchell Grassland, Darling Riverine Plains Bioregion.
Credit: Jaime Plaza/Botanic Gardens Trust
Bioregions of New South Wales

The 18 bioregions in New South Wales cover a wide diversity of landscapes.