The Online Pollinator Stewardship Program is a practical, hands-on course with participants learning online and working on real-world projects covering topics such as pollinator identification and monitoring, habitat creation and managed and wild pollination services. 

The program is the first of its kind in Australia, and has been adapted from a successful US program by Pollinator Partnership, co-designed with Australian scientists and Indigenous creators to suit local landscapes and communities. 

The Online Pollinator Stewardship Program is offered by the Wheen Bee Foundation, and CEO Fiona Chambers says the program is an exciting step towards improving people’s understanding of pollinators.  

“We want to support everyone, whether that’s farmers, land managers, educators, students, backyard gardeners or inner-city residents, to take simple steps to support pollinators,” Ms Chambers said. 

“The program is suited to people learning about pollinators for the first time or looking to broaden their existing knowledge. 

“Participants will build a deep understanding of pollinators and their role in the environment, with the opportunity to translate their knowledge into meaningful action.” 

The program features eight online modules and weekly live Q&A sessions hosted by subject-matter experts. It also includes an Indigenous module focused on knowledge and practices related to pollinator conservation, developed in collaboration with Indigenous Australians. 

At the end of the program, participants will complete a sustainability project, such as developing or restoring pollinator habitats and an education project, to raise awareness of threats to pollinators and encourage community action. 

A pilot program ran from February to March this year, with feedback from participants shaping the first full edition of the course in May. 

The Online Pollinator Stewardship Program starts on Wednesday, 6 May 2026 and registrations are now open.  

Valued at $500, the subsidised program will cost $129 to enrol and graduates will receive a certificate on completion to recognise their status as a certified pollinator steward. 

“The program gives people the opportunity to improve their capabilities to support pollinators,” Ms Chambers said. “The credential demonstrates to employers or customers that they have developed a holistic understanding of pollinators, firmly based on science.” 

The Online Pollinator Stewardship Program is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust. 

Find out more or register for the program here www.wheenbeefoundation.org.au/online-pollinator-stewardship-program