The Queensland Government is throwing extra funding into eradicating fire ants. Photo: National Fire Ant Eradication Program
Queensland is to spend an extra $24 million on controlling and eradicating invasive fire ants.
The state government funding boost for the Fire Ant Suppression Taskforce will take its total funding to $61 million.
The taskforce will target 212,000 hectares across South-East Queensland over two years and is expected to reduce ant density by as much as 80 per cent.
Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett says they will be “hitting fire ants hard” and “doubling down on suppression efforts”.
“Fire ants have run rampant in other countries, stopping sports, cancelling BBQs, closing beaches, and severely impacting outdoor lifestyles,” he says.
“By working with other states and the Commonwealth, we will fight back against the out-of-control spread of fire ants.”
Eligible properties of 10 hectares or greater infested with fire ants in the suppression area can be treated by drone or helicopter at no cost to the landholder and an extra 12 contractors will be called in.
Fire ants, if left untreated, can destroy crops, gardens and parks and endanger humans, wildlife, animals and pets, the government says.
In 2021, the Central Queensland University found that an uncontrolled spread of fire ants over 15 years would cost the agricultural industry $1 billion a year.
Fire ant treatment is safe for people, pets and the environment when used as directed.
REPORTING TIPS
The National Fire Ant Eradication Program offers the following tips:
- Look out for fire ant mounds: After heavy rain, fire ants build their nests higher, making them more visible. As you clear debris, check for nests in disturbed areas, such as near footpaths, driveways, and garden beds; under timber, rocks, and pavers; and near utility pits or electrical infrastructure. Their nests can appear as mounds or flat patches of loose soil with no clear entry or exit holes.
- Spot the ants: Fire ants are small but aggressive and swarm when disturbed. Look for ants that are copper brown in colour with a darker abdomen, measure 2-6 mm in size, varying in size within the one nest. Take caution if you see a nest or ants that match this description — fire ants can sting and their venom may cause severe allergic reactions.
- Report any sightings: Report your sightings online or by calling 132 ANT (13 22 68) within 24 hours.
- Be cautious when moving debris: Be mindful that fire ants may hide in soil, potted plants, branches, or other materials, or in floodwaters. Where possible, check items before relocating them.
