Under the McGowan Government, a series of Machinery of Government changes were made to the public sector creating a number of new amalgamated departments.

The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority, the Rottnest Island Authority, the Zoological Parks Authority and the former Department of Parks and Wildlife were brought together on 1 July 2017 to form The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

The Department is tasked with improving Western Australia's natural attractions as key tourism assets, and creating opportunities for private sector investment and partnerships. Conservation science is also consolidated under this Department to build and share knowledge of the State's biodiversity.