Red Imported Fire Ants (Solenopsis invicta)

Fire Ants are one of the world’s most invasive species and can have devastating consequences on our environment, economy, and human health. Their extremely painful stings can harm or even kill people, livestock, and entire native ecosystems.

Fire Ants were first detected in Australia in 2001 at a northern port in Brisbane. Since then there have been various outbreaks within Queensland.

In late 2023 the first Fire Ant outbreak in NSW was detected at South Murwillumbah. In January 2024 the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) confirmed a second detection of Fire Ants in NSW at Wardell, located 85km south of the Queensland border.

To have the best chance of preventing and eradicating Fire Ants from Australia we need to work together as a community to prevent and slow the spread.