We, the undersigned, urgently call for the protection of Perth's tree canopy and the implementation of sensible, effective state-wide regulation for the removal of large trees (greater than 8 metres) in our urban areas. This petition addresses the pressing need to preserve our existing large, healthy trees for the benefit of our environment, communities, wildlife, and global efforts to combat climate change.

Perth's Urban Forests play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, providing habitats for wildlife, and enhancing the overall ecological balance. Large trees serve as vital nesting and roosting sites for various bird species, including endangered Carnaby's Cockatoos and Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos. The removal of these trees not only disrupts their habitats but also poses a serious threat to the survival of these iconic Australian birds.

Recent analysis by the Conservation Council of South Australia reveals that Western Australia (WA) currently has the weakest protections for trees on private land in the country. Shockingly, under the current WA planning framework, there is no requirement for development approval when removing large trees from private land. This regulatory gap allows corporations, such as the Royal Agricultural Society of Western Australia (RASWA), to potentially remove large trees without council approvals, posing a significant threat to our Urban Forests.

We propose a practical pathway to address this issue by urging WA's Minister for Planning to amend the Planning and Development (Local Planning Scheme) Regulations 2015 - Deemed Provisions. Specifically, we request the addition of a provision requiring development approval for the removal of large trees.

This initiative aligns with the State Government's Planning Reform agenda and would provide consistent regulation across all local governments. We recognize that there may be instances and exceptions where large trees need to be removed, but the emphasis should be on retaining those that provide countless community benefits, including preserving habitats for our unique wildlife.

Many other cities, such as Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Singapore, have successfully implemented tree regulations that strike a balance between urban consolidation and preserving trees and green spaces. It's time for Perth to catch up and introduce practical and effective regulations for the removal of large trees.

Once these precious large trees are gone, their restoration takes decades or even hundreds of years. When new estates are built often all existing trees are removed this is extremely counter intuitive. These overheated areas take years to recover and create hotspots that may affect health and wellbeing . We cannot afford to lose these vital components of our urban environment. Let's act now to ensure a sustainable and thriving future for Perth's Urban Forests and the diverse wildlife that call them home.

By signing this petition, we call on the WA Minister for Planning to prioritize the amendment of regulations to protect our large trees, uphold the environmental, social, and economic benefits they provide, and safeguard the habitats of Perth's unique wildlife.