Western Australia Forms Taskforce to Address Mouse Infestations in Regional Schools

Regional schools in Western Australia's Midwest and Wheatbelt regions have reinstated COVID-era hygiene measures in classrooms because of a months-long mouse infestation. Air purifiers have been reactivated and staff have been instructed on the use of personal protective equipment.

The infestations have caused damage to textbooks, library books, and carpets. One school has incorporated the situation into mathematics lessons on mouse reproduction rates.

The Education Department established a taskforce this week to assist schools with mouse-related issues. The department has arranged weekly pest control visits using approved contractors, though principals question whether weekly visits are sufficient given the scale of the infestation.

Regional Principals Association president Jonathon Arnott said staff are performing cleaning tasks outside their normal duties. He noted that some schools have received weekly carpet shampooing but that provisions for deeper cleaning have not yet been finalized.

Arnott stated that principals are receiving department communications via email and letter but must implement measures without additional on-site assistance. He expressed concern about the isolation of school leaders and the strain on staff. The ABC requested an interview with Education Minister Sabine Winton and asked the department about shortages of cleaners in rural areas and possible mental health support.

The department did not answer the questions, and the minister declined the interview request.