Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Wanneroo reported its first polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) case on 27 June 2025, in a tree in the suburb of Wanneroo. That was a dated local report—not evidence that the beetle has only just arrived in Perth, or that the same tree remains infested. Perth is now managed under a quarantine regime, and residents should check current rules before moving woody material.
What was reported in Wanneroo
In a report published on 27 June 2025, PerthNow’s Liam Murphy said the City of Wanneroo had confirmed its first PSHB case, in a tree in Wanneroo suburb. The City said it was working with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) on a Tree Management Plan for the affected tree and would monitor the area. PerthNow’s report also recorded three cases on council-managed land in neighbouring Joondalup and more than 4,700 trees removed across the Perth metropolitan area at that time. Those figures describe the situation reported in June 2025, not current totals.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Hot Shot Kitchen Bug Killer 14 Oz, Contains Botanical Insecticides | Buy on Amazon |
Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken warned in that report that PSHB could significantly affect the City’s urban canopy if it became established locally, and urged residents to check trees and report suspected sightings. The sources cited here do not establish the later status of the individual tree or whether further northern-suburb cases have occurred.
Why the beetle is a concern for trees
DPIRD identifies the polyphagous shot-hole borer as Euwallacea fornicatus, a small invasive beetle native to Southeast Asia. It bores into wood and spreads pathogenic fungi. DPIRD says more than 500 plant species have been affected globally, and the pest was detected in Western Australia in August 2021. These details and the current response information are on DPIRD’s PSHB information page, updated 12 November 2025.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- Killer Made from botanical be used
- In kitchens, pantries and food preparation areas No unpleasant
- Odor Kills roaches, ants, flies gnats and other
- Made with botanical insecticides
Western Australia’s response has shifted from trying to eradicate the pest to long-term management. DPIRD says the National Management Group determined eradication was no longer technically feasible. The state is implementing a Transition to Management plan focused on targeted surveillance, integrated pest management, and support and training for landowners.
How the quarantine affects Perth residents
DPIRD says the Quarantine Area covers metropolitan Perth and is divided into zones. Requirements depend on the material and the zone, so a rule that applies to one item or location should not be assumed to apply to all plant material or every suburb.
| Material or activity | DPIRD guidance |
|---|---|
| Untreated or unseasoned wood | Cannot be moved outside the Management Zone unless it is chipped into pieces no more than 2.5 cm in diameter. |
| Plant material, including living plants | Material greater than 2 cm in diameter cannot be moved outside the Management Zone. |
| Machinery used to handle wood or plant material | Must be cleaned before it is moved outside the zone. |
| Green waste going to a local government waste facility | Must be securely contained in a fully sealed and covered skip bin, trailer or truck. |
The City of Wanneroo also advises residents that restrictions apply to moving items such as wood, green waste, mulch, live plants and other plant material, and directs them to DPIRD for state requirements. Before moving, disposing of or treating woody material, check the DPIRD page and quarantine boundary map, along with the current Quarantine Area Notice for your address. For local information, see the City of Wanneroo’s PSHB guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do if you suspect shot-hole borer
- Look for signs, but do not treat a suspicion as confirmation. DPIRD asks people who find or suspect PSHB to report it for investigation.
- Photograph the suspected holes. Include a ballpoint pen or ruler beside them so their size can be assessed.
- Send the report to DPIRD. Use the MyPestGuide Reporter app or contact the Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS) on (08) 9368 3080 or at [email protected].
- Check before moving affected material. Use DPIRD’s current map and notice for the relevant zone and material rules.
Who manages affected trees
DPIRD says its pruning and removal program focuses on trees in the outer Perth metropolitan area that pose a risk of spreading the borer beyond the Quarantine Area. Other landowners and managers in metropolitan Perth are responsible for managing affected trees. The appropriate action for a particular tree depends on its circumstances; check with DPIRD and the relevant local government rather than assuming the general program covers it.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
