Become a Friend


Join the Friends today!

The Friends of the National Arboretum Canberra are a non-profit community organisation dedicated to supporting the Arboretum and its ongoing development.

Join the Friends and learn about the Arboretum, forest species and the biodiversity they nurture. Enjoy the benefits, become a part of a network of like-minded people, participate in the growing range of activities offered or work with the community to help develop the Arboretum for future generations.

Join the Friends

Benefits of becoming a Member

Gift Shop Discount

10% discount at The Curatoreum gift shop

Cafe Discount

10% discount at the Arboretum Café

Annual Parking Pass

Discounted annual parking pass for the National Arboretum Canberra

Friends Newsletter

Receive seasonal Friends' Newsletters and updates

Friends Working Bees

Join in the Friends working bees, nurturing the gardens and forests

Additional Discounts

Access discounts to many Arboretum Events and Workshops

Projects and initiatives by the Friends

National Arboretum Canberra: a twenty year story

The National Arboretum Canberra’s journey wasn’t without its complexities but despite the hurdles, the passion and vigour of so many individuals assisted to not only achieve the idea, but helped it exceed expectations and flourish to the significant landmark it is today.

The Arboretum Book

The book tells the story of the first decade of the Arboretum and helps you explore the mosaic of designs for every forest and garden. Discussing the history and evolution of the grounds and how they have come to be today. Identifying the different gardens and their meaning throughout the Arboretum, as well as in depth information about each forest and it’s design.

Friends Forest Shelter

Kindly sponsored by the Friends of the National Arboretum Canberra, this architecturally designed shelter was carefully positioned to minimise the impact on the natural landscape.

Wollemi Propagation Project

Wollemi pines donated to the Arboretum by the Friends of the Arboretum were planted in Forest 32, marking a significant milestone throughout a project which also involved seed collection, germination, and scientific study.

Seating & Settings

Remember special events and life moments with a gift of a bench seat or a picnic setting at the National Arboretum Canberra. Choose from one of over 15 locations amongst the Arboretum’s forests, trails or beautiful surroundings with spectacular views to Lake Burley Griffin or the Brindabella Mountains.

Harvest Stalls

There is nothing like the taste of homemade jam, freshly made chutney and the scent of herbs. Made with organic produce from the Arboretum's very own Kitchen Garden and with fruits from the forests, stock up on homemade goodies and seedlings and support the Friends of Arboretum.