Local councils across Perth's western suburbs are receiving a significant financial injection to combat the devastating impact of an invasive pest that has been destroying trees throughout the region.
Government Funding Distribution
The first round of grants under the new pest containment strategy has allocated close to $1 million across 20 local governments, with six of the seven western suburbs councils receiving funding. The western suburbs alone have seen borer-related costs exceed $300,000 as they work to address the environmental damage.
Claremont, Nedlands and Mosman Park emerged as some of the largest recipients, securing $110,009, $107,068 and $84,360 respectively. The City of Stirling received the highest individual allocation at $140,173. Meanwhile, Subiaco, Cottesloe and Cambridge councils requested less than $15,000 each, having experienced less severe impacts from the pest.
Three-Year Restoration Program
The funding supports a comprehensive three-year program that aims to replant more than 900 trees across affected areas. The strategy involves planting three new trees for every single tree removed during initial eradication efforts, which have since been downgraded to a management approach.
Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn emphasised the government's commitment, stating: "We will continue investing in tree-planting initiatives and future greening strategies because building resilient, thriving urban environments is essential to Western Australia's long-term environmental health and community wellbeing."
From Eradication to Management
The funding announcement follows the State Government's significant policy shift in June, when officials abandoned the borer eradication approach in favour of a "management strategy". This change in tactics acknowledges the persistent nature of the polyphagous shot-hole borer infestation.
According to Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development figures, the scale of damage has been substantial. A total of 2,308 trees have been removed and 529 pruned - some on multiple occasions - across both private and public land in Perth's western suburbs.
The invasive polyphagous shot-hole borer has particularly affected riverside areas, decimating parks and private gardens throughout the region. The next round of funding is scheduled to occur next year, continuing the fight against this destructive pest.
