The Zoological Parks and Gardens Board is the governing body of Victoria's three great zoos: Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo. Set up in 1973 as a Statutory Authority, the Board’s role is to protect and promote the zoos and their roles in conservation, research and education.

The Board is appointed by the Victorian Minister for Environment and Climate Change, the Hon. Gavin Jennings.

The Zoological Parks & Gardens Act 1936

The Zoological Parks & Gardens Act 1936 was originally enacted on 14 December 1936. The objectives and functions of the Board, as set out in the Act, are:

• The exhibition of zoological specimens to the public
• The scientific study of zoological specimens
• The instruction and entertainment of the public
• The protection, preservation, management and care of wildlife
• The protection or preservation of wildlife habitat including native plants and trees

The Werribee Zoological Park (now known as Werribee Open Range Zoo) was established by the Board in December 1975 and opened to the public in September 1983.

On 27 June 1978 the Victorian Government placed The Sir Colin MacKenzie Zoological Park (Healesville Sanctuary) under the management of the Zoological Board.