The City of Perth has been recognised as a 2025 Tree City of the World for the third consecutive year, celebrating its ongoing commitment to growing and caring for its urban forest.
To earn the title, the City met five key standards set by the international Tree Cities of the World program. These include having clear responsibility for tree care, strong policies for tree and forest management, regular assessments of tree canopy, dedicated resources for a tree management plan, and an annual community celebration of trees.
Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said the recognition reflects the City’s dedication to expanding and nurturing a healthy, resilient tree canopy across Perth’s streets and parks.
“Trees are fundamental to the health and liveability of our City,” Mr Reynolds said. “They provide critical habitat for wildlife, cool our urban environment, support community wellbeing and contribute to a more sustainable Perth.”
He said the City is investing in the right tree species for Perth’s climate and creating the conditions they need to thrive. “It’s about building a healthy, resilient urban forest for future generations,” he said.
The Tree Cities of the World program recognises cities that show strong leadership in managing and expanding their urban forests, ensuring they are protected, sustainably maintained and celebrated for the benefits they provide.
This month, the City released its Polyphagous Shot-Hole Borer (PSHB) Response Document, reinforcing its commitment to protecting Perth’s urban forest. The document captures three years of experience managing PSHB and outlines an evidence-based, tree-first approach that focuses on early detection, rapid intervention and canopy retention wherever possible.
In 2024/25, only two trees were removed due to PSHB, demonstrating the success of early surveillance and targeted treatment.
Community involvement remains a key part of the City’s approach, with initiatives such as the WA Tree Festival in April and Tree Month in May. Last year’s Tree Month saw more than 120 trees and nearly 900 shrubs planted through verge transformation projects, with this year’s program set to expand further. An additional 200 trees were planted as part of National Tree Day.
The City’s Urban Forest Plan 2016–2036 continues to guide this work, setting a long-term vision to protect and enhance Perth’s tree canopy. Since the plan’s introduction, canopy cover across the City’s streets and parklands has grown from 21 per cent to 26 per cent — helping create a greener, cooler and more sustainable Perth.
