Reporting process

Find out what happens after you report fire ants. Learn how your reports help us to protect the community.

The reporting process

We rely on reports from the community to help us stop the spread of fire ants.

We assess each report and respond as quickly as possible.

We identify the reported ants

We use the information you provide, including any photos and videos, to confirm whether the ants are fire ants.

If we need more information, we'll contact you.

If fire ants are confirmed

Once a report is confirmed as positive, we work with you to arrange treatment. We prioritise treatment based on the risk to the community.

High-risk scenarios include:

  • Fire ants or nests located near facilities for children (e.g. schools and childcare centres) or aged-care facilities
  • Any situations where people or animals have been stung.

We also consider:

  • the number nests reported
  • the type of property and size of the land
  • our eradication treatment schedule.

We will work with you to determine the best treatment approach for your situation.

Once treatment is arranged, we may also:

  • identify where the ants came from
  • arrange ongoing monitoring of the area
  • work with the community to prevent further spread of fire ants.

If it's not fire ants

Even if your report is negative, your efforts help us monitor and protect the community.

We encourage you to keep regularly inspecting your property, local parks and playgrounds.

Why report fire ants

Nobody knows your yard like you do. Our teams rely on reports from the community to help us identify and treat fire ants before they spread.

By reporting them, you're helping to keep your community safe from this dangerous pest.

Next steps