It is more distantly related to the rainbow lorikeet, the two distinct lineages colonising Australia independently.

[9] "Red-collared lorikeet" has been designated as the official common name for the species by the International Ornithologists' Union (IOC).

It lives in woodland, open forest and rainforest, and has adapted to urban environments readily, being found in towns and cities.

[11] The species is sedentary, though follows food supply, such as banksias in flower in April and May on Groote Eylandt.

[9] The species nests throughout its range, in hollows in large trees, generally some distance above the ground.

[11] The red-collared lorikeet feeds on the flower heads of the Darwin woollybutt (Eucalyptus miniata).