Research funding to safeguard WA ag sector from shot-hole borer

• $2 million available for new research to enhance WA's polyphagous shot-hole borer response
• Expressions of Interest open for new and innovative projects to protect Western Australia's valuable agricultural sector
• Cook Government-backed WA Agricultural Research Collaboration to lead research program

The Cook Government is backing local research initiatives to help protect the State's valuable agriculture industry from the destructive polyphagous shot-hole borer.

Up to $2 million in funding is available for innovative projects aimed at safeguarding Western Australia's agricultural assets through a new program led by the WA Agricultural Research Collaboration (WAARC).

Expressions of Interest are now open for the program, with Western Australian scientists encouraged to put forward research proposals and apply.

Research into the destructive beetle and its associated fungus within the WA environment is vital to support the ongoing national eradication response.

The WAARC recently brought together experts from across government, research and industry to identify key priority areas for research into the polyphagous shot-hole borer.

These include the pest's interactions with its environment, innovative control strategies and new approaches to detection and surveillance.

Research applicants must address one of the three key priority areas.

Short-listed research initiatives will be asked to put forward a detailed project proposal for funding consideration.

Expressions of Interest close at 5pm (AWST) on 18 December 2024.

For more information on WAARC's Polyphagous Shot-hole Borer Research Program visit Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer – Fusarium Dieback | WA Agricultural Research Collaboration.

Comments attributed to Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:

"We are continuing to work hard in the fight against the polyphagous shot-hole borer and our response efforts have proven effective in containing it to the metropolitan area.

"There have been no effective chemical treatments found anywhere in the world, so the more we can learn about the polyphagous shot-hole borer, and how to combat it, the better.

"The Cook Government is committed to continuing to look for alternative solutions, including supporting local scientists to undertake research in WA.

"I encourage our leading researchers and scientists to embrace this opportunity and put forward research proposals to help us protect our State's urban tree canopy and horticultural industry."