Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB)

Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) Euwallacea fornicatus is a beetle native to Southeast Asia. The beetle attacks a wide range of plants by tunnelling into trunks, stems and branches. There are a number of confirmed detections within the Perth metropolitan area and a Quarantine notice is in place to support the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) response.

How is the City managing PSHB?

The City of Perth has released its PSHB Response Document, outlining three years of on-the-ground experience managing Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) and reinforcing the City’s commitment to protecting Perth’s urban forest.

The document shares real-world data, surveillance methods and targeted treatment outcomes to support local governments, arborists and sector partners across Western Australia.

Our experience-based, tree-first approach prioritises early detection, rapid intervention and canopy retention wherever possible. Surveillance and rapid response programs have successfully protected high-value and heritage trees across the city.

Read more in the City’s PSHB Response Document.

Current situation in City of Perth?

In June 2025, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) confirmed that eradicating the Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) in Western Australia was no longer possible.

From 1 July 2025, the response moved to a Transition to Management (T2M) phase, with DPIRD scaling back its operational role. Current information indicates that local governments will increasingly take the lead in managing PSHB in their areas.

The City of Perth’s ‘tree-first’ approach to PSHB management has been recognised as a leading example of effective response and attracted local, national and international interest.

The City has released Managing PSHB: City of Perth Experience and Insights, a public resource that shares its evidence-based approach and supports other local governments and tree managers responding to PSHB.