Australia’s bushland is a living mosaic shaped by fire, drought and ancient soils. It supports a wide range of hardy plant species that have adapted to low nutrients, seasonal extremes and long dry periods. These plants form the backbone of many inland and coastal ecosystems, creating shelter, food and structure for native wildlife.

The Bushland Species section highlights the shrubs, grasses, small trees and groundcovers that define the country’s open woodlands and scrublands. From resilient wattles and banksias to saltbush, spinifex and the many understorey plants that thrive beneath eucalypt canopies, each species plays a role in maintaining the health and diversity of the landscape.

Readers will find profiles of individual plants, insights into their ecological importance and stories of how communities have long used and cared for them. Together these pieces offer a grounded view of Australia’s bushland heritage and the ways these species continue to shape everyday life across the continent.