Queensland fruit fly (QFly) incident announced 31 March 2026

Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) has been detected in the South Perth and Como area. Response activities are progessing to support eradication.

Current Status

Delimiting surveillance to determine the size of the Quarantine Area is now complete, with no additional detections found outside of the South Perth and Como suburbs. This increases confidence in the current extent of the infestation.

What are DPIRD doing?

Response activities continue to scale up in the affected area, including:

·       Additional Qfly trapping within the outbreak area will continue, supported by DPIRD's permanent network of traps to support ongoing monitoring

·       Inspections and surveillance

·       Baiting of street trees using a registered organic fruit fly bait

·       Scaling up staffing and operational capacity to support the next phase of the response

The response is being coordinated from the State Biosecurity Response Centre in Canning Vale, with continued engagement across industry and government stakeholders. 

What this means for the apple and pear industry

A Quarantine Area Notice is being finalised. The Quarantine Area and any associated requirements will be implemented in accordance with the National Fruit Fly Management Protocol, ensuring a consistent and nationally agreed approach.

Perth Markets will fall within the proposed 15km Export Assurance Zone (Orange Zone). While there are currently no formal movement requirements in place, market agents and growers are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspect fruit fly damage.

Further detail on boundaries and requirements will be shared with industry when finalised.Next steps

Next Steps

Response activities will continue across the affected area, alongside a coordinated stakeholder engagement and communication program. 

This includes:

·       Stakeholder briefings and industry meetings

·       Webinars and online updates

·       Pop-up information displays and community engagement activities 

·       Local signage and on-ground information 

These activities are designed to ensure information is accessible, consistent and widely available, and that stakeholders have opportunities to ask questions and stay informed.

Working with industry

DPIRD is committed to keeping industry informed and engaged throughout the response. Stakeholder feedback will continue to inform response activities where appropriate. 

Reporting and information

Suspected Qfly can be reported to the Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080 or via the MyPestGuide® Reporter app.

Up-to-date information is available at: wa.gov.au/qfly