An arboretum is a place where trees are cultivated for conservation, scientific and educational study, display and preservation.

The National Arboretum Canberra features 100 forests of rare and endangered trees from Australia and around the world.

This concept redefines the meaning of a public arboretum in the 21st century. As it develops into the future, it will become a significant recreational and educational asset with an important role for sustainability, the protection of biodiversity and for best practice in horticulture and water management.

The vision of the ACT Government in establishing the National Arboretum Canberra is for it to become one of the great arboreta in the world. The aim is to provide a place of outstanding beauty of international standard and interest that is a destination and recreational resource for the local community and visitors to Canberra.