Pillar 5 - Sustaining and caring for our local ecosystems
As an island state, Tasmania’s biodiversity is particularly vulnerable to invasive species and emerging diseases. Hobart Zoo and Aquarium strengthen biosecurity awareness and action through community education.
We achieve this through:
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Providing clear, accessible information on environmental risks, including invasive species and diseases such as avian influenza
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Delivering practical guidance on prevention, early detection and response through interpretation, public messaging and education programs
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Embedding local and global conservation priorities into the visitor experience to drive awareness and action
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Promoting shared responsibility to protect wildlife, domestic species and ecosystems
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Supporting collaboration between institutions, researchers and the community to enhance long-term biodiversity resilience
Case Study: Tasmanian Devil facial tumour disease
A key example of this work is our daily Tasmanian devil presentations, where keepers educate visitors on the impacts of Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD), which has caused declines of over 80% in some wild populations.
As a keystone species, devils play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance, underscoring the urgency of their conservation.
Through these presentations, visitors gain insight into current conservation efforts, including disease research, insurance populations and programs in partnership with the University of Tasmania.
Enrichment demonstrations, such as feeding on whole prey items, further highlight natural behaviours, strengthening public understanding and support for protecting Tasmania’s unique ecosystems.
By 2030, Hobart Zoo & Aquarium will be recognised as a leading institution in Tasmania for community education on local ecosystem health and biosecurity.
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