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The Evolving Zoo
Zoos Victoria manages three great zoos: Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary, and Werribee Open Range Zoo. Each zoo has its own focus, but all three work towards the goal of building enduring relationships between people and wildlife for a future in which people live in balance with the natural world.
Melbourne Zoo was Australia’s first zoo opening in 1862. Outside of the historic zone along the Main Drive, the Zoo has changed dramatically over the past 145 years with new developments such as Trail of the Elephants, the Orang-utan Sanctuary and the Water Recycling Plant.
Work has just started on a new project, which will exhibit Australian Fur Seals, Australian Little Penguins, and other marine life – due to open in 2009.
History of the Zoo
Melbourne Zoo is Australia's oldest zoo and has undergone many changes over the years.
Find out moreTrail of the Elephants
Trail of the Elephants is a multi-award winning development that takes visitors into an Asian village which is home to the Zoo's five elephants.
Find out moreOrang-utan Sanctuary
Visitors can journey along the elevated boardwalk and ascend into the tree-top world of the Orang-utans.
Find out moreRecycled Water Plant
The Water Recycling Plant captures and treats wastewater from rainfall and Zoo operations and pumps recycled water around the zoo through 4km of pipes.
Find out moreFuture Direction
We are transforming our three zoos into leading centres for visitor experience, conservation, education, research and sustainability.
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