Council acts on tree poisoning in Glen Waverley

A Glen Waverley resident has been fined $9,000 for poisoning an established 18m lemon-scented gum tree on their property. 

Monash Mayor, Cr Paul Klisaris, said Council’s action reinforces the importance of our tree canopy.

“Our trees matter. They cool our neighbourhoods, clean our air, make our streets walkable and protect Monash’s cherished garden character.

“We know how important they are to our community and Council will continue to investigate reports of tree poisoning to protect our crucial tree canopy.” 

The tree was poisoned when its trunk was drilled with 8 holes and filled with a green substance, with bark glued to disguise the holes (pictured below).

Laboratory analysis showed the substance in the tree was glyphosate.

The property falls within a Vegetation Protection Overlay, which covers some of the northern and eastern parts of Monash to preserve vegetation, encourage regeneration of native plants and trees, and protect habitat for native animals.

Under the Vegetation Protection Overlay, a planning permit is required to remove or destroy vegetation that is higher than 10m and has a trunk circumference greater than 50cm (16cm diameter) at 120cm above ground level.

In Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 5 June 2025, the Glen Waverley resident pleaded guilty to 1 count of failing to comply with the Monash Planning Scheme. They were found guilty without conviction and fined $9,000, with costs of more than $4,000 being awarded to Council.

A replacement tree has been planted in place of the poisoned tree.

Contact us if you are concerned about the health of a tree.