Varroa mite detections in Queensland
Varroa destructor
On 3 March 2025, varroa mite (Varroa destructor) was confirmed for the first time in Queensland.
- Since then, commercial and recreational apiary sites in many council areas have varroa mite and varroa mite resistance.
- The current known area of infestation is reflected on the varroa mite surveillance map.
- To date, no exotic bee pests or viruses have been found.
Alongside the beekeeping industry, we have been preparing for this event for some time. Since September 2023 we have aligned to the national transition to management approach. We are working closely with affected beekeepers to:
- slow the spread of varroa mite and synthetic miticide resistance
- minimise the impact of varroa mite on the beekeeping industry and people who rely on it
- help guide management practices.
We expect to see increased detections in Queensland due to natural spread, synthetic miticide resistance and increased distances between detections due to the pest being present in migratory hives.
Restricted matter
Varroa mite is now restricted matter category 2 and remains notifiable. It is a requirement to report its presence. Anyone finding varroa mite in their hives must report it within 24 hours to Biosecurity Queensland.
There are 3 ways you can report varroa mite in Queensland:
- Use the Bee 123 form.
- Email varroa@dpi.qld.gov.au.
- Phone us on 13 25 23.
What you need to do
If you have undertaken beekeeping activities in or within 5km of any current known areas of infestation shown on the surveillance map, we strongly encourage you to:
- check your hives
- report your results to Bee 123, even if no mites are found
- apply decontamination procedures between apiaries.
Monitor and report
- Monitor for mites monthly using the alcohol wash method.
- Report all hive check results using the Bee 123 form, even if no mites are found.
- Immediately report any suspect mites.
- Immediately call 13 25 23 to report any:
- unexpected hive deaths
- deformed bees
- bees with parasites
- poor brood patterns
- dead brood.
After you report
Your submission will be reviewed by Biosecurity Queensland. If varroa is found, you can take these steps manage your hives and stay informed.
- Monitor your mite thresholds.
- Create an integrated pest management plan to maintain hive health.
- Regularly monitor for varroa mites and check for signs of miticide resistance.
Keep informed
- Regularly check the varroa mite surveillance map when planning to move hives to new locations.
- Subscribe to our bee e-alert and our varroa newsletter to stay up to date with the latest information.
- Register as a biosecurity entity, whether you have 1 hive or 100.
- Keep up-to-date with movement restrictions for your intended destination before moving bees or equipment.
Slow the spread
- Detect varroa mite as early as possible.
- Use integrated methods to manage varroa mite appropriate for mite loading.
- Use a barrier system when varroa mite is present. This will help protect your own and neighbouring apiaries.
- Limit the movement of hives, swarms and nucs from affected apiaries to reduce the risk of spreading resistant mites and avoid introducing bees or equipment from affected apiaries.
- Avoid bringing swarms into your apiaries until they have been treated and a negative wash has been undertaken.
- Always come clean and leave clean and use decontamination practices between apiaries.
- Complete a hive health check before and after moving hives to new locations.
- Report all hive health check results to Bee 123, even if no mites are found.
Support
Access advice about early detection and integrated pest management principles by emailing varroa@dpi.qld.gov.au.
The National Varroa Mite Management Program concluded on 6 February 2026. Limited beekeeping resources from the program are still available until December 2026.
Beekeeper support
A network of volunteer biosecurity champion beekeepers has been established throughout Queensland to support recreational beekeepers with biosecurity advice. Contact your local beekeeping club to get in touch with their nominated biosecurity champion.
Support for beekeepers and pollination-reliant industries
An engagement officer and bee biosecurity officer are available for education and engagement purposes, focusing on building the resilience of beekeeping communities and pollination-reliant industries. Email varroa@dpi.qld.gov.au.
Grants
Community Bee Innovation Fund (CBIF) grants of between $5,000 and $50,000 have been awarded to help deliver innovative varroa mite management tools or education and training in Queensland. View the grant recipients and their projects.
Varroa jacobsoni
On 19 February 2024, a single varroa mite (Varroa jacobsoni) was found in a sentinel beehive at the Port of Brisbane.
More V. jacobsoni were then found in a feral Asian honey bee nest nearby. This feral nest was destroyed. Testing showed this was a new, exotic incursion of Asian honey bee. None of these bees had exotic bee viruses.
Asian honey bees are the natural host for V. jacobsoni.
There is no evidence to suggest V. jacobsoni or Asian honey bee has established at the Port of Brisbane.