Ramsar Wetlands

Ramsar wetlands are wetlands of international importance, recognised under the Ramsar Convention - a global treaty signed in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar to protect and wisely use the world’s vital wetland ecosystems.

These wetlands are selected because they are outstanding examples of natural or near-natural wetlands, and they provide critical habitat for plants, animals and migratory birds. Being Ramsar-listed means a wetland has exceptional value - not just nationally, but globally and should be protected for present and future generations.

Why Ramsar Wetlands Matter

🌿 They protect biodiversity: many Ramsar wetlands support threatened species, rare ecosystems, and migratory birds that travel thousands of kilometres each year.


💧 They safeguard water quality and climate stability: Ramsar wetlands help filter water, store carbon, and buffer against floods and droughts.


🌏 They connect us globally: through the Ramsar Convention, Australia joins over 170 other countries in committing to wetland conservation and sustainable use.

Ramsar Wetlands in Australia

Australia was one of the first countries to sign the Ramsar Convention, and today there are 67 Ramsar-listed wetlands across the country, covering more than 8.3 million hectares. These include freshwater floodplains, saltmarshes, mangroves, lakes, and estuaries.

Some well-known Ramsar wetlands in Australia include:

  • Kakadu National Park (NT): a vast, biodiverse tropical wetland rich in birdlife and Indigenous culture

  • Macquarie Marshes (NSW): one of Australia’s most significant inland wetland systems

  • Hattah-Kulkyne Lakes (VIC): a series of freshwater lakes important for waterbirds

  • Banrock Station Wetland Complex (SA): a restored wetland on the Murray River with strong community involvement

  • Western Port Bay (VIC): an internationally important area for migratory shorebirds and saltmarsh habitats

  • Moreton Bay (QLD): a mix of seagrass, estuary and mangrove systems that support dugongs and turtles

  • Edgar Range Wetlands (WA): rare ephemeral wetlands in the Kimberley supporting unique plant communities

Image: Hattah-Kulkyne Lakes Tim Connors