A fire ant detection in the Gold Coast’s Currumbin Valley is a timely reminder for residents and businesses to stay alert for fire ants and report any suspected sightings.
On 29 July 2026, program eradication field officers discovered nests on a private development site while conducting planned surveillance activities.
Eradication activities – including intensive treatment containing insect growth regulator and surveillance – will initially cover an area up to 500 m from the detection site to ensure any undetected fire ants are eradicated.
Fire ant eradication treatment is safe for humans and animals. A habitat assessment will be carried out in the area to ensure the program’s response prioritises fire ant eradication while conserving environmental, cultural, and social values unique to the area.
Eradicating fire ants requires a whole-of-community approach. Residents and business owners in Currumbin Valley and surrounding areas should:
- regularly check properties and the local area for fire ants and nests
- report their findings online or call 132 ANT (13 22 68) – even if fire ants aren’t present - letting the program know they’ve checked helps track fire ant spread and strengthens eradication efforts
- allow eradication officers access to properties to conduct eradication activities
- take steps to prevent the spread of this invasive pest.
Visit fireants.org.au or call 132 ANT (13 22 68) for more information.
Quotes to be attributed to Robert Wilson, Senior Director, Operations, National Fire Ant Eradication Program
'Fire ants can have devastating consequences on our health, environment, economy, and outdoor way of life, which is why every suspected sighting should be reported immediately.
'Delayed reporting gives this invasive pest time to spread, making eradication more difficult, costly, and increasing the risk that fire ants pose to our communities.
'Every Queenslander has a general biosecurity obligation to prevent the spread of fire ants. Those who don’t comply face heavy penalties including fines of more than $500,000 or 3 years imprisonment.'