The latest data on urban tree canopy for Perth and Peel has been released, revealing that canopy cover has increased to 22 per cent in 2024, up from 21 per cent in 2020.
This updated dataset offers a more comprehensive and detailed view of urban vegetation across all suburbs and local government areas, highlighting the crucial role trees play in cooling neighbourhoods, improving air quality, and supporting wildlife habitats.
Urban canopy is increasingly recognised as a key factor in making suburbs more resilient to the health impacts of heatwaves, while also delivering significant social and economic benefits.
The 2024 figures show notable variability in canopy cover between suburbs, providing valuable insights for local governments and communities to target planting efforts and support the growth of existing trees.
Upgrades to the Western Australian Planning Commission’s Urban Canopy Dashboard have made the data more accessible and user-friendly, allowing stakeholders to better understand and act on the information.
The dashboard is available to the public, offering a resource for tracking progress and identifying priority areas for greening initiatives.
The Western Australian government has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing urban greenery, with the Western Australian Planning Commission set to consider a draft Urban Greening Strategy for Perth and Peel later this year.
In addition, several new initiatives are being rolled out, including urban greening grant funding, a native tree planting rebate program known as ‘Treebate,’ and a $7.2 million Tree Recovery package to address losses from the polyphagous shot-hole borer.
Planning and Lands Minister John Carey emphasised the importance of accessible data, stating: “Having clear, up-to-date and accessible data helps local governments and communities plan for greener streetscapes and identify areas where planting efforts are most needed.”
Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn highlighted the government’s ongoing commitment, stating: “Protecting and expanding our tree canopy is vital in the face of a changing climate and increasing heatwaves.”
With these measures, the government aims to ensure Perth and Peel’s suburbs remain liveable, vibrant, and resilient for generations to come.