Construction Begins on Next Phase of Australia Expansion at ABQ BioPark
The expansion will feature new animal habitats and insight into Australia's First Nations culture.
2026 is off to an exciting start at the ABQ BioPark, as construction has officially begun on the second phase of the highly-anticipated Australia expansion at the Zoo!
“Since voters approved the one-eighth cent gross receipts tax in 2016, the BioPark has undergone remarkable transformation, and the continued Australia expansion will be a pivotal part of that,” said ABQ BioPark Director Brandon Gibson. “We can’t wait to welcome guests to a brand new space that will allow them to experience some of Australia's most iconic animals while honoring Australia's traditional cultures.”
The goal of the expansion is for guests to be immersed in the continent’s cultural and ecological landscape from the moment they enter Australia.
This vision started to take shape in 2024, when we welcomed guests to the first phase of expansion which introduced Australian Shores and the Lorikeet Experience. This space connects guests with colorful birds, including warm weather penguins, native to Australia while spotlighting First Nations artifacts and artwork.
Now, construction has begun on the second and final phase, moving further inland to Australia’s freshwater and dryland countries in an environment styled after the Australian outback.
This roughly 1.5 acre area will include new innovative and enriching habitats for some of Australia’s most beloved species like wombats, emus, kangaroos, wallabies, and a couple returning species to the BioPark—Tasmanian devils and tree kangaroos!
Continuing the standard set by Asia at the Zoo, several of the habitats will be built as flex habitats, connected by tunnels. Although different species won’t share the space at the same time, it will offer enrichment for the animals by rotating them between habitats so they can experience more choice, control, and variety.
In addition, there will be new habitats for Australian freshwater turtles and pythons, as well as a walk-through aviary featuring an assortment of Australian birds!
The expansion will also continue to celebrate Australia’s First Nations culture by showcasing a variety of culturally significant artifacts, supplied by Boomalli Creative—an Aboriginal-owned consulting firm based in New South Wales, Australia. The design incorporates areas reminiscent of First Nations yarning circles, spaces dedicated to sharing, listening, and connecting with one another.
Construction on Australia phase two is expected to last about 14 months. We look forward to welcoming you to our complete Australia experience when it opens in 2027!