Atlas of Living Australia – Open access to Australia’s biodiversity data Overview & Contact Data

The Atlas of Living Australia (ALA) is a national platform that provides open access to the country’s biodiversity data. By aggregating observations, specimen records, ecological surveys and other sources, the site creates a comprehensive digital atlas that maps the distribution and diversity of Australian species across the continent. The portal offers interactive tools that let users search by taxon, location, or ecological attribute, and it displays results on dynamic maps, charts and downloadable datasets. Researchers, ecologists, and conservation professionals use ALA to track species trends, assess habitat changes, and model ecological scenarios. Policy makers and government agencies rely on the data to inform land‑use planning, environmental impact assessments, and biodiversity management strategies. Educators and students find the resource useful for classroom projects, while citizen scientists contribute new records through mobile apps and web submissions. The platform’s emphasis on open data encourages collaboration and transparency, allowing anyone to explore and reuse the information for scientific or educational purposes. What distinguishes ALA is its scale and scope. It compiles millions of records from museums, universities, government bodies, and community groups, making it one of the largest biodiversity databases in the world. The site’s integration with other national and international initiatives, such as the Global Biodiversity Information Facility, expands its reach and ensures that Australian data is part of the global knowledge base. By providing a single, user‑friendly entry point to biodiversity data, the Atlas of Living Australia supports research, conservation, and public engagement, helping to safeguard the country’s natural heritage for future generations.