Electric ant surveillance program

A surveillance program for electric ants has been authorised under the Biosecurity Act 2014.

Biosecurity matter

The biosecurity matter to which the biosecurity program relates is electric ant (Wasmannia auropunctata).

Purpose and scope

The purpose of the biosecurity program is to:

  • monitor compliance with the Biosecurity Act 2014 and subordinate legislation to minimise the risk of spread of electric ants
  • and
  • check for the presence or absence of electric ants in Far North Queensland local government areas, including:
    • Cairns Regional Council
    • Mareeba Shire Council
    • Tablelands Regional Council
    • Cassowary Coast Regional Council
    • Douglas Shire Council
    • Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council.

The biosecurity program applies to Far North Queensland local government areas, including:

  • Cairns Regional Council
  • Mareeba Shire Council
  • Tablelands Regional Council
  • Cassowary Coast Regional Council
  • Douglas Shire Council
  • Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council.

Commencement and duration

The biosecurity program commenced on 21 April 2025 and will continue to operate until there are no National Electric Ant Eradication programs operating in Queensland.

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

Access to biosecurity program

The program can be viewed either by: