SUMMARY The occurrence of the European house borer Hylotrupes bajulus (L.) in New South Wales and the measures taken to control it are described. Since infestation by the beetle was first discovered in 1955 more than 2,000 buildings have been inspected and numerous pieces of timber suspected to be infested have been examined. Methods of detection are assessed. The risk of establishment of the beetle in Australia is discussed. Control measures by inspections and regular re-inspections and fumigation of active infestations with methyl bromide have been used. No evidence of the borer has been found during re-inspections and the insect is not considered to be established in the State.