The Critically Endangered Project was a multi-state initiative led by the Australian Seed Bank Partnership in collaboration with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, designed to safeguard some of Australia’s most imperilled plant species. From 2022 to 2024, we integrated seed banking with germination science and restoration horticulture to support species recovery for 10 Critically Endangered species in Western Australia and Tasmania.

Working across varied landscapes and taxonomic groups, the project brought together seed scientists, horticulturists, and land managers for a shared purpose. Partners piloted novel recovery techniques, including trialling new germination media and developing cryo-storage protocols for fungal symbionts to underpin future restoration. Horticultural innovation extended to the establishment and enhancement of seed production areas and translocation sites for species of orchid, spider flower, bitter pea, and feather flower, bolstering their long-term conservation.

This talk will explore the aims, partnerships, and innovations of the Critically Endangered Project, offering insights into how collaborative and adaptive approaches have strengthened conservation outcomes for some of Australia’s most threatened plant species.