[4] The first master plan was created by Kinhill Steams in 1986; however, the current Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden was designed by the landscape architect Grant Henderson.

[4] As the architect, Henderson played a detrimental role in the cultivation of the arid zone conservation conducted by the gardens.

[5] In more recent years the Friends have expanded its role to include public education, activities and informative newsletters.

[11] The plants at the Garden may also experience changes to the climate in adverse ways such as the increase in temperature and the subsequent variability of rainfall.

[4][7] The primary use of the space is for conservation, where besides initial planting, continued weed and pest control, these areas are left untended.

[6] Eremophila, or emu bush, are small shrubs and trees with sticky or shiny leaves which produce colourful flowers and fruit.