The National Fire Ant Eradication Program National Management Group (NFAEP NMG) met on the 16 April 2025 to review program performance against the 2023-24 Response Plan, ongoing governance improvements, and details of the program’s operational structure to enhance efficiency and responsiveness.
The impacts of post-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and recovery efforts were outlined including biosecurity challenges around the movement of hay and fodder to support flood affected farmers.
Performance reporting highlighted operational delays due to wet weather and workforce constraints. Aerial and labour contracts are under review, and the program is actively transitioning contingent workers to full-time roles to strengthen delivery capacity. Although expenditure delays persist, strategies are underway to enhance delivery and meet objectives.
It was noted that compliance efforts have intensified, and a turf taskforce has been established to address specific operational challenges around human-assisted movement of this high-risk carrier material. Governance discussions included reviewing the Risk Management and Assurance Committee’s role and refining the program's operational structure without altering the NMG’s decision-making authority.
The meeting concluded with a recap of actions and agreement to meet face-to-face in June 2025.