The WA Government has awarded $1 million to 20 councils under the first found of the Local Government Grant Program, supporting the replacement of more than 900 trees lost to shot-hole borer and helping rebuild greener, cooler neighbourhoods.
The program supports increased canopy coverage by funding the planting of three new trees for every tree removed during the eradication effort.
Local governments were also encouraged to select species that enhance Western Australia’s unique native biodiversity.
“This funding will support local governments to order tree and understory stocks for planting across the 2026, 2027 and 2028 planting seasons,” said Environment Minister, Matthew Swinbourn.
“Our government is committed to creating communities that are greener, healthier and more liveable places where people can enjoy cleaner air, cooler streets and stronger local biodiversity.
“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.”
Successful recipients under Local Government Grant Program Round 1 are:
- City of Bayswater $38,760
- City of Belmont $54,959
- City of Canning $58,140
- City of Joondalup $16,630
- City of Kalamunda $51,276
- City of Melville $80,900
- City of Nedlands $107,068
- City of Perth $56,434
- City of South Perth $36,480
- City of Stirling $140,173
- City of Subiaco $12,937
- City of Swan $7,201
- City of Vincent $59,827
- City of Wanneroo $2,085
- Town of Cambridge $7,672
- Town of Claremont $110,009
- Town of Cottesloe $12,204
- Town of East Fremantle $22,873
- Town of Mosman Park $84,360
- Town of Victoria Park $17,594
Total funding: $977,582.
Round 1 was launched on 26 May and applications closed on 7 July, with the second round of funding to open in the second quarter of 2026.
“We know how beloved trees are to our local communities and understand the impact the borer has had on our urban tree canopy,” said Agriculture and Food Minister, Jackie Jarvis.
“Local governments and communities continue to play an important role in this response and have worked alongside our government since the borer was detected.
“I’m pleased our government is providing significant support to help these communities replace the trees they’ve lost and help our urban tree canopy to thrive again.”
In a separate initiative, residents impacted by shot-hole borer on their private property can also apply for rebates to replace trees lost to the invasive beetle. Eligible landowners can claim up to $150 for every tree removed under the authorisation of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) as a result of shot-hole borer. More information on residential rebates and how to apply can be found on the WA Tree Recovery Program website.
