View of the Stirling Ranges in Western Australia. / ©: Cortlan Bennett

Southwest Australia

Australia's southwest corner is one of the most important areas in the world for biodiversity conservation. What is now known as the Southwest Australia Ecoregion, and revered internationally for its plant biodiversity, is a sanctuary for a number of endangered and unique species. However, clearing for agriculture and urban development, along with introduced species have exacted a huge toll.
WWF-Australia has worked in Southwest Australia since 1978, when we funded surveys to locate the rare marsupial mouse known as the dibbler.

Since that time WWF-Australia has expanded its activities and offices across the Southwest Australia Ecoregion, working to conserve vital landscapes, remnant bushland and threatened species.

A simple formula is the key to our success in Southwest Australia. We work collaboratively with our partners to implement solutions that safeguard this jewel in the Australian continent.

Southwest Australia map

View Southwest Australia in a larger map

Eucalyptus erythronema flowers, Southwest Australia Ecoregion. / ©: Richard McLellan / WWF-Aus

Southwest Australia Ecoregion (SWAE)
The Southwest Australia Ecoregion is one of only 34 global biodiversity hotspots, is one of WWF’s 35 Global Priority Places, and is both an Endemic Bird Area and Centre for Plant Diversity.

Lake Monger and Perth skyscrapers in the background. / ©: Kath Howard / WWF-Aus

Perth
Fast-growing Perth is projected to more than double in size to 4.3 million people by 2056, which could spell disaster for this globally important stronghold for nature.

Map of the Southwest Australia marine region / ©: Commonwealth of Australia

Southwest Australia marine environment
Australia’s southwest marine environment is home to many unique animals. Its biodiversity exceeds that of the Great Barrier Reef, yet less than 1% of the region is protected.

Related publications

Australia's largest terrestrial conservation plan developed for WA

PDF 31 KB

Adopt an animal

Tiger

Your adoption of Kamrita the tiger will help WWF protect these big cats in the wild.

Tiger

or Adopt an animal
Pygmy elephant

The Borneo pygmy elephant is now in danger of extinction and WWF estimates that there are as few as 1,500 individuals pygmy elephants remaining in the wild.

Pygmy elephant

or Adopt an animal
Orang-utan

Your adoption of Koyah will help WWF protect orang-utans in the wild through our campaign to stop habitat loss, hunting and illegal trade.

Orang-utan

or Adopt an animal
Marine turtle

Your adoption of Hector the turtle will help WWF to protect marine turtles around Australia.

Marine turtle

or Adopt an animal

Southwest Australia