Birds Australia has been protecting Australia’s birds since 1901. A few years later, a splinter group, known as the Bird Observers Club of Australia (BOCA), was formed to cater for the needs of recreational bird watching rather than scientific ornithological study. In 2010 a merger of these organizations was re-examined and it became clear that a merger would create a stronger voice for Australia’s birds without duplication of resources or effort.

In May 2011 members voted in favor of the amalgamation. [Over 93% of BOCA members and more than 95% of Birds Australia’s] An emphatic endorsement and BirdLife Australia was born.

A new BirdLife Australia website will be launched in February 2012.