Red imported fire ant prevention and control program

A prevention and control program for red imported fire ants has been authorised under the Biosecurity Act 2014.

Biosecurity matter

The biosecurity matter to which the biosecurity program relates is the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta).

Purpose and scope

The purpose of the biosecurity program is to:

prevent the establishment or spread of red imported fire ants in Queensland that pose a significant biosecurity risk
manage, reduce or eradicate any red imported fire ants in Queensland that could pose a significant biosecurity risk.

The biosecurity program will apply to the whole state of Queensland.

Commencement and duration

The biosecurity program began on 1 November 2026 and will continue to operate until the biosecurity risk of red imported fire ants is considered to no longer have an adverse effect on any biosecurity consideration in Australia. Red imported fire ants are listed as a high-risk invertebrate pest on the National Priority List of Exotic Environmental Pests, Weeds and Diseases.

The duration of the biosecurity program is considered to be reasonably necessary to achieve the biosecurity program's purpose.

Access to biosecurity program

You can view the program via any of these methods:

Download the biosecurity program for prevention and control of red imported fire ants.
Inspect a copy at any of the Department of Primary Industries offices.
Contact us online, by phone or in person.