The National Fire Ant Eradication Program (the program) is responding to a confirmed detection of fire ants in Moranbah.
On 9 July 2025, program eradication officers visited the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance Broadmeadow Coal Mine site and destroyed fire ant nests using direct nest injection.
The program responded swiftly to this detection and will conduct eradication activities across the impacted area – including intensive surveillance and broadscale treatment – to ensure any present fire ants are eradicated.
Genetic analysis and tracing activities is being conducted to help determine how the ants reached Moranbah.
Detections outside the South East Queensland eradication zone are serious and highlight the risk posed by movement of materials that can carry fire ants.
It is critical that businesses within the fire ant biosecurity zones understand their regulatory obligations and requirements to safely move these materials.
When tracing activities reveal a breach of these conditions, there are a range of compliance actions that may be taken.
Everyone is encouraged to learn how to identify fire ants and nests, and report any findings online or call 132 ANT (13 22 68).
Eradicating fire ants requires a whole-of-community effort. Eradicating fire ants is a national priority.
Visit fireants.org.auor call 132 ANT (13 22 68) for more information.
Quotes attributable to Michael Homden, Executive Program Director, National Fire Ant Eradication Program:
“The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is working closely with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance to contain, treat, and eradicate this significant detection swiftly,” he said.
“This detection is a strong reminder that community and industry vigilance can, and does, stop the spread of fire ants.
“Eradicating fire ants is a shared community responsibility – and BHP’s cooperation demonstrates how industry partners contribute to this critical national effort.”