Results of the analysis of rDNA sequences based on 55 collections representative of 32 Drakaeinae orchid species and outgroups supported the monophyly of the subtribe, with weak support for the inclusion of Spiculaea, and revealed six strongly supported monophyletic, well defined morphological groups. Caleana is monophyletic. Chiloglottis s.lat. is monophyletic when Simpliglottis and Myrmechila are included. Our results also suggested that the segregate genus Phoringopsis is better treated as part of Arthrochilus.There is sufficient molecular and morphological support for recognition of the leafless, mycroheterotrophic Thynninorchis to be maintained as a separate genus. A taxonomic summary is provided, including reassignment of taxa at generic ranks and new combinations for Caleana alcockii (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana brockmanii (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana disjuncta (D.L.Jones) M.A.Clem., Caleana dixonii (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana gracilicordata (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana granitica (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana hortiorum (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana lyonsii (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana parvula (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem., Caleana terminalis (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem. and Caleana triens (Hopper & A.P.Br.) M.A.Clem.