Secondary School Tour at the Australian PlantBank

The Australian PlantBank is a testament to the nation's dedication to preserving our native plant species.

This leading research institution boasts a cutting-edge laboratory where ground-breaking scientific research and critical conservation efforts take place to preserve plants.

Facilities and features inside the Australian PlantBank include our seedbank which houses over 100 million seeds from 5,000+ plant species – including rare and endangered ones, and the National Herbarium of New South Wales which stores over 1 million plant specimens carefully collected from around the world, a vital insurance policy against the extinction of plant species in the wild.

More than just a workspace, the laboratory is an educational hub where students can develop their knowledge and skills in plant science. Here, students can explore interactive exhibits and displays about plant collection, biodiversity, and research to understand the importance of plant conservation, to inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity about science and technology practices in the natural world.

The tour includes a birds-eye view of the Australian PlantBank laboratories to discover what our scientists are working on. Bookings are essential for all school groups. Overall, this excursion is an excellent opportunity for students to enhance their education and experience the exciting world of plant science.

Add a 30-minute guided tour to an excursion

Why not add a special guided tour to your existing excursion? Be guided through the stunning space by a Botanic Gardens of Sydney Educator who will share insights on the amazing building, its sustainable features, and current scientific research. You will then be given time to explore the building at your own pace and enjoy the Diversity Wall – a fantastic interpretive wall which the students can interact with through a quiz.

This add-on is approximately 30 minutes of time to walk to and explore the building. If you are also booking a school excursion with us, please allow longer for lunch between your booked excursion program and this experience.

Bookings essential: Includes an introduction and interpretation by a Botanic Gardens Educator, quiz sheets for students and an answer sheet for the teacher (please bring your own pens/pencils).

Choose a self-guided tour only 

Walk through the building with your students, pointing out fun facts as provided on a self-guided information sheet.

Bookings essential: Fact sheet provided on booking.

Cost: Free. Donations requested upon entry.

The Australian Plantbank is an indoor venue, so no wet weather gear is required. Wear comfortable shoes and bring an inquisitive mind!

The Australian PlantBank is approximately 60km southwest of the Sydney CBD in Mount Annan. Parking is available on-site. 

You can also take a train to Campbelltown, then take a bus to Mount Annan. Catch the 895 or 896 bus that will take you to the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan, which is adjacent to the Australian PlantBank.