Celebrating 28 million trees, shrubs and grasses planted across Australia
By Jennifer McMillan 19 December 2024
Since 1996, volunteers across Australia have come together to plant trees, shrubs and grasses. Students, teachers, Landcare groups, councils, businesses and environmental organisations collaborate to host National Tree Day planting events.
This year, Schools Tree Day on July 26 and National Tree Day on July 28 brought communities together with a renewed focus on the mental health benefits of nature and the tools to combat climate distress. The annual Tree Talk publication highlighted the groups working to protect threatened species and Planet Ark celebrated 25 years of partnership with Major Sponsor Toyota Australia.
Planet Ark co-hosted three events with Waverley Council, Inner West Council, and IndigiGrow. We also launched new educational resources in collaboration with Deadly Ed, providing teachers and educators with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to integrate Aboriginal perspectives into their National Tree Day initiatives.
Our collective impact this year
702,000 trees, shrubs and grasses were planted bringing the national tally to over 28 million
1,528 events were run between January and December
56,348 seedings were funded through The Seedling Bank
810 schools registered to plant on Schools Tree Day
50,000 volunteers dug in across the country on National Tree Day
These incredible results mark our biggest year since pre-COVID. This remarkable impact wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of event coordinators, volunteers, and supporters. Special thanks go to Major Sponsor Toyota Australia and all the Toyota dealers across the country who partnered with local groups and schools to provide merchandise, funding for seedlings, and hands-on event support.
As we reflect on these incredible achievements, we are inspired by the passion and commitment of everyone involved. Together, we’re not just planting trees—we’re growing hope, resilience, and a deeper connection with nature and each other.
Jen worked as a vet nurse while studying environmental science and completing her master's degree in Journalism. She loves bushwalking, storytelling, caring for baby animals, Australian birds and river red gums. Jen works on the National Tree Day campaign and Planet Ark's Seedling Bank.
