Red Imported Fire Ants remain one of Australia’s most serious invasive pest threats, with the potential to impact farms, livestock, workers, machinery, the environment and regional communities. 

The current infestation footprint covers approximately 1,111,800 hectares across South East Queensland and parts of northern NSW. NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development advises there have been no NSW detections since July 2025, but surveillance and treatment are continuing. 

The biggest risk is human-assisted spread. Fire ants can travel in soil, mulch, hay, manure, growing media, turf, potted plants, pallets, containers, machinery and ground-stored items. 

Queensland’s fire ant biosecurity zones are reviewed monthly and extend 5 km beyond known detections. 

What should growers do? 

Check the latest Biosecurity Zones and interactive map before moving carrier materials 

Use the official Material Movement Advice Tool to understand permit, treatment and movement requirements, including additional controls for material moving into NSW 

Make sure all your staff know what to look for  

Fire ants are 2–6 mm, copper-brown with a darker abdomen, and swarm aggressively when disturbed. Nests may appear as dome-shaped mounds or loose soil patches without obvious entry holes 

Do not disturb or treat suspicious nests yourself – take a clear photo or video from a safe distance and report it quickly 

In Queensland, report online or call 13 22 68 

In NSW, report online or call 1800 680 244 

Here’s a link for more info: https://www.fireants.org.au/?mc_cid=59d1322c75&mc_eid=7a736c9b40