Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA) were first detected in Australia in South East Queensland in 2001. Governments have worked collectively to eradicate them ever since.
The National Fire Ant Eradication Program (the Program) aims to eradicate this serious pest from Australia by 2032. The Fire Ant Response Plan 2023–27 focuses on strengthening containment and compliance, and intensifying program-led and community treatment.
The Program reports to the National Management Group that is responsible for the strategic direction, with technical advice and support provided by a national consultative committee.
The National Management Group is comprised of members of the National Biosecurity Committee. The Senior Responsible Owner for the Program is the Deputy Director-General and Chief Biosecurity Officer, Queensland. The chair is the Deputy Secretary, Biosecurity and Compliance Group, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Commonwealth Government.
The National Steering Committee ceased on 22 February 2024.
RIFA are one of the most serious invasive ants in the world due to their harmful effects on people, the environment and the economy. A detailed summary of the eradication program and the work being done to protect Australia from fire ants is located at National Fire Ant Eradication Program. For information about other RIFA incursions around Australia, see Red imported fire ant.
This section contains information and documents including meeting minutes, media releases and reviews of the Program.