Tree City of the World

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 Onkaparinga: Officially a Tree City of the World

We’re putting down global roots - in March 2025, the City of Onkaparinga was proudly recognised as a Tree City of the World - joining a prestigious network of cities leading the way in growing greener, healthier communities.

With just 210 Tree Cities across 24 countries and 6 continents, we’re thrilled to be one of only 11 Australian cities to receive this international honour. The program, run by the Arbor Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organization, celebrates cities that care deeply for their urban forests – and we’re proud to be one of them.

What’s it all about?

Being a Tree City of the World isn’t just a title – it means we’re part of a global movement that’s reshaping how communities value and manage trees. We now have access to a powerful international network where cities share tools, tips and success stories for protecting and nurturing urban forests.

What did we do to earn it?

To get accredited, Onkaparinga had to meet five key standards - and we passed with flying colours:

  • Clear responsibility – Our brand-new Tree Management Policy helps us grow, protect and care for the thousands of trees under our watch.

  • Smart regulations – We’re putting strong guidelines in place to make sure trees thrive.

  • Know our trees – We’ve mapped the city’s tree canopy and are tracking progress with our goal of planting 100,000 trees by 2037. So far, we’ve planted over 63,000 trees in streets, parks and waterways.

  • Fund the future – We’re investing in the long-term health of our urban forest.

  • Celebrate the wins – Our annual community tree giveaway event and education programs are getting locals involved in planting where it matters most – on the 74% of land that’s privately owned.

Why it matters

Being a Tree City of the World helps us build a greener, cooler, and more liveable Onkaparinga. Every tree planted brings cleaner air, more shade, better biodiversity – and a stronger connection to nature for everyone who calls our city home.

As Sophie Plitt from the Arbor Day Foundation puts it: “Tree Cities of the World is more than a recognition program. It’s a global movement, connecting passionate organisers and tireless tree planters under a shared mission: making our communities healthier places to live.”

Want to learn more?

Explore the Tree Cities of the World program: treecitiesoftheworld.org

Let’s keep planting, growing and greening Onkaparinga – together.

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