The Invasive Species Council has welcomed the Queensland government’s announcement that fire ant treatment will now occur year-round, describing it as a smart, science-backed move that could significantly boost the effectiveness of the national eradication effort.
The announcement follows a new detection of fire ants in Tweed Heads, New South Wales this week and an interception in Perth, Western Australia last week.
‘Back in May we called for a well-resourced winter blitz to uncover hidden nests before fire ants begin to fly, spread and multiply in the warmer months. It’s encouraging to see the Crisafulli Government has heard these calls,’ Invasive Species Council Advocacy Manager Reece Pianta said.
‘Research shows fire ants continue to forage and consume bait, even in cooler weather and so it is absolutely essential that treatment continues, especially in areas where density is getting out of control, like in the Lockyer Valley, Somerset and Scenic Rim regions.
‘The increased treatment schedule, along with drone led treatments, suppression and containment boosts will be essential if we are to gain ground over the coming 12 months.
‘We now need the Albanese Government to step up, match Queensland’s $24 million suppression funding boost and commit to the full ongoing eradication program.
‘These cross-border detections and interceptions are proof that this is not just a Queensland issue. If fire ants escape the current containment zone undetected, they will spread across the country, devastating agriculture, threatening public health, and damaging our wildlife and way of life.
‘Fire ants are among the world’s worst invasive pests. Their aggressive stings can trigger severe allergic reactions in humans, and they pose a serious threat to pets, livestock, native animals and infrastructure.
‘If eradication fails, the cost of fighting back will fall squarely on everyday Australians. Families spraying harsher chemicals in their backyards, sporting clubs battling ants on ovals, councils forced to treat beaches and parks – just to keep these tiny killers at bay.
‘Australia still has a chance to stop fire ants – but only if the Albanese Government steps up to the plate with the long-term funding needed to win this fight for good.’
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Fire ant images are available here.