Published 25 September 2026
Queensland’s fire ant biosecurity zones have been updated, effective 25 September 2026. This month, zone coverage has expanded in parts of the following local government areas:
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
- Redland
- Somerset
- Sunshine Coast
Moving fire ants—even accidentally—threatens national eradication efforts. Anyone handling or transporting the following items in these zones must comply with biosecurity requirements:
- materials that can carry fire ants
- vehicles, equipment, machinery, portable structures, and tools for fire ants, especially if they have been stored outdoors or have come into contact with soil.
- large removable structures stored on the ground, such as shipping containers, site sheds, portable offices or modular buildings.
What you should do
Businesses:
- check zones monthly for updates
- follow movement control
- use fire ant-safe practices
- inspect and clean equipment and machinery before moving it offsite.
Residents:
- use the fire ant compliance tool for guidance on moving materials safely
- ensure equipment and machinery purchased or received from within the zones has been inspected and cleaned before transport
- ensure materials are processed, treated, and stored using fire ant-safe practices.
Eradicating fire ants is a national priority. If you see suspect fire ants or nests, report online or call 132 ANT (13 22 68) within 24 hours.