Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer

Current status

Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) is present across the Perth metropolitan area, including Cockburn.

The national response has transitioned from eradication to long-term management of the pest. Restrictions may apply to moving green waste, plants, firewood and other plant material. Residents are encouraged to check susceptible trees and report suspected infestations.

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What is Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer?

The City of Cockburn is working with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to help manage Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB), a tiny invasive beetle that attacks a wide range of trees and plants.

The beetle tunnels into trunks, stems and branches and introduces a fungus that disrupts the movement of water and nutrients within the tree. Over time, this can cause branch dieback, decline and, in some cases, tree death.

PSHB is a significant threat to Perth's urban tree canopy and can affect hundreds of different tree and plant species.

 How are Cockburn residents affected?

Restrictions may apply to the movement of certain wood, plant materials, live plants and green waste within the Perth metropolitan quarantine area, which includes Cockburn. Requirements can vary depending on location and may change over time.

Residents should always follow the latest movement, disposal and management requirements published by DPIRD.

Use DPIRD's interactive map to find out what restrictions apply at your property.

Residents can continue to use the City's green waste collection and disposal services unless DPIRD has advised specific restrictions apply to their property.

 How to identify and report Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer

DPIRD’s visual guide can help you identify common signs of infestation.

DPIRD's host species information outlines trees and plants that are susceptible to PSHB.

If you notice signs of PSHB or anything unusual on a tree in Cockburn, report it to DPIRD's Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS) on (08) 9368 3080 or [email protected].

You can also submit photographs using the MyPestGuide® Reporter app.

Early detection and reporting help slow the spread of PSHB.

More information and contact

The best source of information on PSHB is on the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) website.

Contact
Phone: 08 9368 3080 
Email: [email protected]