South Bank Biodiversity Strategy

South Bank Corporation / Brisbane, Australia

The South Bank Biodiversity Strategy (SBBS) establishes a designled, place-responsive methodology for enhancing urban biodiversity across the 42-hectare precinct. Navigating a sensitive balance between ecological and recreational demands in this highly activated site, the strategy transforms this challenge into a project strength focused on socio-ecological connections.

Led by McGregor Coxall in collaboration with BAAM, the team developed a robust, evidence-based strategy that balances multiple objectives, accounting for policy, events, and operational requirements, stakeholder engagement, and ecological factors. This integrated approach ensures the strategy serves ecological goals and the role of Brisbane’s premier lifestyle and cultural destination.

Engagement undertaken prior to the project by The Sanctuary of Embracing Difference and the University of Queensland for South Bank Corporation. Traditional Owner groups and local Aboriginal community members include the following:
Danggan Balun/Yerongpan
Djundubari aka Undanbi
Jagera
Kabi Kabi
Recognised Local Brisbane Elder
Ugarapul
Uncle Bob Anderson
Torres Strait Islander
Turrbal

Year

2025

Site Area

17 ha

Collaborators

  • BAAM Ecological Consultants
  • South Bank Corporation
  • City Parklands Services

Sectors

  • Water + Environment
  • Residential + Communities
  • Parks + Play

Awards

  • 2025 Landscape Architecture Award for Landscape Planning - Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) QLD
Map of a city with a winding river passing through the center, highlighting the South Bank and diverse green, pink, and white areas representing land uses that support the city's Biodiversity Strategy. A dark area marks a central district. Scale bar: 2 km.
An open magazine displays a Biodiversity Strategy with a pie chart and text on the left, while the right page shows a map of South Bank with blue highlights, all set against a light gray background.
A closed booklet with a green cover titled "South Bank Biodiversity Strategy" lies on a light gray surface, highlighting the region’s commitment to biodiversity. Logos of several organizations appear along the bottom edge of the cover.
A closed booklet labeled “South Bank Biodiversity Strategy” rests beside an open spread showing a map, diagram with colored icons, and text outlining the South Bank’s Biodiversity Strategy. The background is plain light gray.
Aerial view of South Bank riverside park with a sandy lagoon, pathways, rich biodiversity, and surrounding buildings. People are visible enjoying the water and walking along curved paths near the water’s edge.

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