Government of New South Wales and the Zoological Parks Board

Taronga and Western Plains Zoos are operated by the Zoological Parks Board (ZPB) of New South Wales (NSW). The ZPB Act of 1973 sets out management parameters that the zoos undertake the following functions:

  1. carrying out research and breeding programs for the preservation of endangered species,
  2. carrying out research programs for the conservation and management of other species,
  3. conducting public education and awareness programs about species conservation and management,
  4. displaying animals for educational, cultural and recreational purposes.

The Board's primary objectives are to facilitate visitor and community education, biological research and wildlife conservation.

The Board aims to maximise the visitor experience by providing a unique and exciting educational tour of each zoo with animals exhibited in an environment similar to their natural habitat.

More than 1.5 million people have visited the zoos during the past 12 months.

Education initiatives undertaken by the Board primarily focus on public education in relation to the conservation of biodiversity leading to improved community awareness and activity.

The Board supports school education programs at Taronga and Western Plain Zoos where approximately 100,000 school children visit per annum and are tutored in environmental management and biodiversity.

The Board has an absolute commitment to the preservation and conservation of wildlife and demonstrates this commitment through ongoing captive breeding and research programs.