Backyard Biodiversity

Backyard Biodiversity

Do you want to discover how your backyard can make a big difference for biodiversity?

Whether you are new to gardening or already love it, the Backyard Biodiversity project will help you transform your backyard into a welcoming home for local wildlife.

Join us and learn how to:

  • create habitat for native birds, insects and wildlife
  • choose the right plants to support biodiversity
  • make a positive impact on your local environment.

Let's grow a green future together, one backyard at a time.

Take part in our pilot project in Kyneton

If you live in Kyneton, you can apply to join our Backyard Biodiversity pilot project! Successful applications will receive:

  • a free box of 10-15 plants native to your area
  • expert advice from a garden designer
  • knowledge to create wildlife-friendly spaces.

Launch event

  • Do you live in the Kyneton township? Renting? No worries - Backyard Biodiversity can be tailored to suit your needs.
  • Want to attract more wildlife to your backyard?
  • Have a space in your backyard you'd like to convert into a habitat?

If you answered yes...

Let's grow! Join us at our launch event on 22 March, from 1-2pm, at Kyneton Community House.

Register

Here's how it works

Apply to become part of our Kyneton pilot program. If successful, you will:

  1. Attend a workshop on 17 May 2025 in Kyneton and receive expert advice on how to create backyard habitats.
  2. Book a 45-60 minute consultation with our garden designer for your personalised hand-drawn design. The design will be for a maximum space of 3x3m or 9m2. Plants are ordered once your plan has been created and specific species discussed.
  3. Prepare your design site. Don't forget to take some 'before' shots.
  4. Pick up your box of 10-15 plants. Plant out your design.
  5. Observe your new habitat and watch as your backyard comes to life with new wildlife visitors.

Applications open 22 March 2025.

Why are wildlife-friendly backyards important?

Urban and suburban spaces play a critical role in supporting biodiversity and wildlife by offering habitats, resources, and ecological connectivity in areas that are often heavily modified by human activity. Here’s how your backyard can contribute:

Providing Habitat

  • Parks, gardens, backyards, and community green spaces can serve as mini-ecosystems for local wildlife.
  • Trees provide nesting sites, shade and food for birds, insects and animals.
  • Trees, shrubs and groundcovers reduce heat in your backyard making it cooler for both us and wildlife.

Supporting Pollinators

  • Flowering native plants offer nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
  • Native species provide shelter in an urban environment and can include bee hotels, hollow logs or water features for insects and birds.
  • Adding water sources to your backyard helps wildlife during droughts or dry spells.

Wildlife corridors

  • Whilst urbanisation reduces natural habitat, backyards, courtyards and even balconies can act as stepping stones allowing animals to move between larger natural habitats.
  • Neighbouring properties can create and connect wildlife corridors for many species using  nest boxes, water features.

Tell me more

What are the benefits of a native garden?

A native garden supports local wildlife by providing food, shelter, and habitat for birds, insects, and other species. It conserves water, requires less maintenance, and thrives in our climate. Native plants also promote biodiversity, improve soil health, and create beautiful, sustainable spaces that connect to the natural environment, contributing to healthier ecosystems and vibrant communities.

What are native plants, and why are they important?

Native plants are species that naturally occur in a region. They are important because they provide food and shelter for local wildlife and have adapted to the local climate and soil.

What is a biolink?

A biolink is a corridor of native vegetation that connect pockets of habitats, allowing wildlife to move safely between areas.

Can I create a biolink in my area?

Yes. Connect with your neighbours and plant native species in your backyards to form habitat corridors (biolinks).

Do I need a large backyard or what if I don't have one?

No worries. You can create potted gardens on balconies or windowsills using native plants and adding water sources to support local wildlife.

What types of wildlife could I attract?

By planting native flora, you can attract many birds such as the Eastern Spinebill, Superb Fairy-wren, and various native bees and butterflies.

How long does it take to see results?

Some wildlife may visit shortly after planting, but creating a thriving habitat could take several seasons.

Will a wildlife-friendly backyard attract pests?

When attracting wildlife, a balanced ecosystem often keeps pest populations in check naturally.

Are there any costs involved in joining Backyard Biodiversity?

No. Participants in the project will receive a 45-60 minute consultation with a garden designer and a free box of 10-15 native plants.

Can I get assistance in designing my backyard?

Yes, as a participant, you will receive a 45-60 minute consultation with a garden designer for a maximum area of 3x3m or 9m2. Further advice can be sought privately.

Where can I find native plants for my backyard?

Local nurseries often stock native plants. To find specific native species to plant in your backyard, you can use Council’s Ecological Vegetation Classification (EVC) resources for plant lists.

Are there any local groups I can join for support?

Yes, most towns across the Macedon Ranges have community groups focused on native gardening and conservation efforts. Contact us for more information.

Can schools participate in Backyard Biodiversity?

No, Backyard Biodiversity is limited to an urban area for residents. There are many programs that encourage schools to create wildlife-friendly spaces as educational tools, such as Resources Smart Schools or Junior Landcare programs.

Schools can contact Council for plant lists native to their area.

Do urban biodiversity projects like Backyard Biodiversity address climate change?

Yes! Planting native species in your garden helps tackle climate change in a few key ways.

First, native plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air and store it in their roots, stems, and leaves, helping to reduce greenhouse gases. They’re also naturally suited to local conditions, meaning they need less water and no chemical fertilisers, which lowers their environmental impact.

A native garden also supports local wildlife, giving birds, insects, and other animals the habitat they need to survive as the climate changes. Plants improve soil health, reduce erosion, and help the ground absorb more water, making landscapes more resilient to extreme weather.

Even small backyard gardens can make a difference by creating cooler, greener spaces and supporting the wildlife that plays a role in balancing the environment.

Resources and fact sheets

Habitat loss from urban development and climate change is making it harder for native wildlife to survive.

Climate change adds to the challenge, with more extreme temperatures and weather patterns, which affects plant growth and disrupts ecosystems.

Even small gardens can make a big difference by creating little pockets of habitat and helping to reconnect biolinks.

Our handy resources can help you provide habitat in your backyard to attract a range of insects, birds, mammals, reptiles, and frogs.

Did you know we have a range of nature guides where you can learn more about local flora, weeds, grasses, birds and insects while you are enjoying nature? Download them from the webpage straight to your phone. This will ensure access to the guides whenever, wherever you are.