Native Gardens Ballarat: Lawns to Plants

Native plant purchases at Ballarat nurseries rose 180 per cent in the six months to June 2026 compared with the same stretch in 2025.

The increase follows the Ballarat City Council launch of its Waterwise Gardens rebate on 1 February, which returns up to $300 to households that replace at least 20 square metres of lawn with approved native species.

Properties around Lake Wendouree have shown the fastest uptake, with front yards along Sturt Street now featuring kangaroo grass and grevillea instead of turf. The Ballarat Botanical Gardens recorded three times the usual attendance at its native plant sessions after the rebates started, while the Ballarat Community Garden on Lydiard Street North added extra Saturday workshops to handle demand.

Lower running costs and local conditions drive the change

Participating households recorded a 35 per cent drop in garden water use within three months, according to council figures, producing average yearly savings of $240 on water and mowing combined. The rebates cover plants suited to Ballarat’s clay soils and cooler winters, reducing the need for ongoing irrigation that older lawns required.

Seedlings remain available at the Sunday farmers market on Sturt Street and through the rebate program’s approved list, which includes species such as banksia and lomandra that attract local birds without extra feeding.

Getting started this winter

Residents can measure lawn areas now and apply online before spring planting begins. The council processes claims within four weeks, and the Botanical Gardens continues its free identification walks on the first Sunday of each month for anyone planning a conversion.