Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? You're in the right place.
Find quick answers about getting involved, painting trees and supporting Blue Tree Project.
Getting Involved
Who can get involved?
Everyone can!
Blue Tree Project is for all who want to make a difference in the mental health space.
We’ve had support from:
-
Schools
- Corporate teams and businesses
-
Local sport clubs
-
Farmers, regional communities and Men's Sheds
-
Community groups and councils
-
Emergency services and more!
No matter who you are or where you're from, you can help spread the message and help kick the stigma!
How can I get involved with the Blue Tree Project?
There are so many ways to get involved and help spread the mission!
- Paint a tree blue
- Host a fundraiser
- Purchase our merchandise
- Upskill with mental health training
- Guest speaker at your next event
- Volunteer
For more details, visit our Get Involved page.
What if I can't paint a tree?
There are many ways you can get involved without painting a tree.
People have found all sorts of creative ways to help spread the symbol and the message behind the blue trees.
From metal blue tree sculptures and temporary wraps, to painting branches and popping them in pots, creating murals, building wooden tree sculptures, and so much more.
View our Blue Tree Alternatives page.
Painting A Tree
Do I need permission to paint a tree?
You do not need permission from Blue Tree Project to paint a blue tree. However permission from your local shire or council may be required:
Permission required:
If the tree is on private land that you don't own.
- You must get permission from the landowner before painting.
If the desired tree is on council or shire land.
-
You’ll need to contact your local council to request a permit or written permission before painting.
-
We’ve created this letter template for you to use when contacting your local council.
Permission NOT required:
The tree is on your own property.
- You’re free to paint a blue tree without needing council approval.
What type of tree can I paint?
We are very cautious of the natural habitat and wildlife and therefore request that you do not paint living trees.
We request that you only paint dead trees in alignment with the story behind the original blue tree. Please note that the choice of tree is not a symbol of those lost, we wish to give these trees a ‘new lease on life’.
What type of paint should I use?
With our natural habitat and wildlife in mind we recommend you use non toxic paints. Non toxic paints are made from raw ingredients such as water, plant and oils. We recommend you opt for low- or no-VOC paints.
There are a range of products online and in-store. Please consult your local hardware store for up to date recommendations and the best advice.
Please click to view Wattyl's environmental recommendations here
How do I stay safe while painting?
Please ensure all safety measures and precautions are taken when planning a painting day.
We strongly recommend only painting trees from ground level to reduce any risk of injury.
If your chosen tree is quite tall, we recommend using a paint roller stick extension to reach higher trees whilst your feet remain safely on the ground level. If you use a ladder please ensure you take the necessary safety precautions and have one person for stabilisation and one person in charge of supervision (spotter).
If you plan on painting a large tree (access required above ground level) please consult a qualified professional to ensure all equipment and machinery involved is being used safely and correctly.
We advise against painting trees close to roads or on roadsides.
We believe very strongly in safe practices and urge individuals to put their safety first.
What colour paint?
Thanks to Wattyl, we now have a branded colour called ‘BLUE TREE’ which makes your colour selection much much easier! This colour is the same as the original blue tree. This specific Wattyl colour was originally called Billie Jean.
Please note you are not required to use the exact colour if you do not wish. We love all blue trees.
Click to view 'Blue Tree' colour here
How much paint will I need?
So you’ve found a tree you want to paint blue and are thinking - how much paint will I need?
If you don’t use all the paint you can always ‘pay it forward’ so someone else can help spread our message.
- Small branches for a vase = tester pot
- Branch cutting put into ground = small tin (1L)
- Small tree = small tin (1L)
- Medium tree = 5L
- Medium – Large Tree = 5-10L
- Large Tree = 10L
- Giant Tree = 10-20L
Please note this is a rough guide - the amount of paint required may vary depending on the individual tree.
What are the environmental guidelines to paint a tree?
Only non-living trees are used as part of Blue Tree Project.
For more details and best practices, please see our Environmental Guidelines page.
How do I register a blue tree?
You can register your tree via our online registration form.
It only takes a few minutes and helps us keep track of the impact and blue trees across the globe.
Fundraising and Donations
How can I fundraise for Blue Tree Project?
You can support the Blue Tree Project by hosting a wide range of fundraising activities - from community painting days and sausage sizzles, to raffles, school events, workplace challenges, or online donation campaigns.
Whether big or small, every effort helps spark conversations and spread awareness.
For ideas, resources, and to get started, head to our Fundraising page.
We have raised some money and would like to donate to Blue Tree Project.
Thank you! We really appreciate all the time and efforts taken to raise funds required to help us to continue to spread our important message and kick the stigma around mental health.
There are two ways you can donate to our cause:
- Donation via website (secure paypal gateway) click here to donate.
- My Cause page
- Direct bank transfer (details below)
Name: Blue Tree Project
BSB: 036030
ACC: 205773
Thank you for your support - we really do appreciate it!
Please email info@bluetreeproject.com.au if you require a donation receipt.
Where do donations go?
All donations help us to continue to further our mission and cause to build a mentally healthier future in our wider community.
Donations help us to fund our organised community painting days and help us to develop events, initiatives and programs to help educate our community about the importance of mental health. Your donations make it possible for us to spread awareness and educate our community to ensure we are equipped with the necessary tools to build a mentally healthier future.
Support
I need some support. What can I do?
First, take a moment to pause - and breathe.
We’re really glad you’ve reached out. Asking for help isn’t always easy, but it’s a strong and important step. You’re not alone, and we want to make sure you find the kind of support that feels right for you.
Take a look at our Help Directory on our Find Support page to explore options - because everyone’s needs are different, and that’s okay.
What is the Help Directory?
Our Help Directory is a comprehensive, downloadable resource designed to make finding the right support service easier.
Download your free copy of Our National Help Directory here.
