Alert centre

Polyphagous shot-hole borer is an invasive beetle species that infests a wide range of trees, causing damage by boring into the wood and spreading pathogenic fungi. A Quarantine Area divided into two zones is in place with rules applied to the movement of wood or plant materials. 

Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) has been detected in Perth's southern suburbs. Qfly is an invasive pest which attacks more than 300 species of fruits and vegetables and could seriously impact Western Australia’s horticulture industries and home-grown produce. 

The African black sugar ant is a significant threat and has the potential to establish in a wide variety of habitats, including both urban areas and precious, undisturbed bushland. All known infestations are under eradication, but we need help to report any suspicious ants.

Avian influenza is an infectious viral disease that mainly affects birds. A contagious strain of H5 bird flu is spreading globally. Although this strain has not been detected in Australia, its arrival on our shores has the potential to cause widescale death of poultry and wildlife.

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is a highly-contagious plant virus that affects tomato, capsicum and chilli. ToBRFV was detected in greenhouse-grown tomatoes in South Australia in August 2024. This disease is not known to occur in Western Australia and must be reported if found or suspected to be present to prevent its entry and spread in the State.

Browsing ant originates from Southern Europe and can be extremely invasive, having proven a willing traveller, hitchhiking in freight and cargo. To date, all known infestations have been eradicated, but we need  help in reporting any suspicious ants.

Australia is currently free of Foot-and-Mouth disease (FMD) but it is present in neighbouring countries including Indonesia. FMD is one of Australia’s greatest biosecurity risks due to the impact on trade, producers, economy and community. It is a reportable disease in WA and early detection, if it is suspected to occur, is crucial to eradicating it as quickly as possible.

Carpet sea squirt is an invasive marine pest primarily spread by the movement of vessels and marine equipment. It can overgrow rocks, shellfish, sea sponges and man-made structures such as wharves, jetty pylons, pontoons, buoys and commercial and recreational vessels.