❓ Question regarding the Department's handling of the polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) outbreak on Rottnest Island, including awareness, initial mitigation, and the shift from containment to management.
AnsweredQoN 916Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
I refer to the outbreak of polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB), and I ask: (a) when did the Department become aware of the presence of PSHB at Rottnest Island; (b) what steps were taken to mitigate the spread initially to contain it, prior to attempting to eradicate it; and (c) how long did it take for the Department to divert from this initial approach?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
24 February 2026
Responded by
Minister for Agriculture and Food
Response time
10 days
(a) 12 October 2022.
(b) The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) commenced eradication activities in accordance with the nationally approved response plan including management of infested trees, comprehensive surveillance and training of Rottnest Island Authority (RIA) staff.
(c) Eradication activities continued until 1 July 2025, when the national response entered an 18-month transition to management phase.
(b) The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) commenced eradication activities in accordance with the nationally approved response plan including management of infested trees, comprehensive surveillance and training of Rottnest Island Authority (RIA) staff.
(c) Eradication activities continued until 1 July 2025, when the national response entered an 18-month transition to management phase.
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