We are all responsible for managing biosecurity risks when dealing with materials that can carry fire ants.
Under the Biosecurity Act 2014, all Queenslanders have a general biosecurity obligation (GBO) to manage any biosecurity risks and threats:
- under their control
- that they know about
- that they are expected to know about.
Dealing with organic materials that can carry fire ants is a biosecurity risk. These materials include soil, hay, mulch, manure, quarry products, turf, and potted plants.
If you are producing, storing or moving any of these materials in Queensland, you must take all reasonable steps to ensure you do not spread fire ants. Different steps apply to each of the organic materials, as outlined in the Biosecurity Regulation 2016.
Fulfill your general biosecurity obligation
If you move or store materials that can carry fire ants, you should do the following to fulfil your GBO:
- understand what fire ants and their nests look like
- check the fire ant biosecurity zones
- find out what materials fire ants can be moved in
- inspect material for any fire ant activity before moving it
- follow movement controls relevant to the materials you or your business are working with, including when buying and selling products. Use our material movement advice tool to find out what rules apply In specific situations
- report suspect ants: Complete the online reporting form or call 13 25 23
- clean machinery and equipment used when working with materials that can carry fire ants, before moving it off-site
- treat any fire ants you find to reduce the risk of them spreading.
Failing to comply with movement controls
Our officers conduct random compliance checks to ensure businesses and individuals are complying with the rules outlined in the Biosecurity Regulation 2016 when they are producing, storing and moving materials that may carry fire ants.
Penalty infringement notices can be issued under the Biosecurity Act 2014 for non-compliance.
