g'day novice,

yes ther are dedicated forums for native plant growers eg.,. another
is gardenweb forums in the au section.

but basically there are a couple ways you could do this, and the first
is like you seem to have done walk around the neighbourhood and see
what growing well, then the second is hang over the fence and ask the
owners of those plants what they are yuo achieve 2 things this way you
get the name of the plant and you get to meet a neighbour.

but basically if you have a good local nursery they should put you
straight on dry garden natives. but remember mulching heavily is a big
secret ingredient. and don't forget to determine where yiour drain
pipes are so you don't plant tree/shrubs with invasive root system too
near to them.




snipped
With peace and brightest of blessings,

len

--
"Be Content With What You Have And
May You Find Serenity and Tranquillity In
A World That You May Not Understand."

http://www.users.bigpond.com/gardenlen1