Information for industry
The department will be engaging with high risk and affected industries in coming weeks to raise awareness and communicate requirements prior to the implementation of a Control Order.
Community information
The department will be engaging with the community in coming weeks to raise awareness and communicate requirements prior to the implementation of a Control Order. Check here for updates.
Links
Fire ant stings and your health
Fire ants can swarm and sting many times. Stings cause a painful burning feeling, redness and itching. Small blisters may form within 48 hours.
If you are stung, wash the area gently with soap and cool water. Apply a cold pack to help with pain and swelling. Do not scratch or break any blisters.
Call 000 straight away if someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, chest pain, nausea, heavy sweating or feels faint. Seek medical advice if symptoms worry you or if you are prone to severe allergic reactions.
See advice for Health Practitioners.
Keep pets safe
Pets that spend time outdoors are at risk, especially animals that dig. Fire ants often swarm around the nose, mouth and ears. Stings can cause serious swelling and may stop an animal from eating, drinking or breathing.
Keep pets away from suspected nests. If your pet is stung, move it away safely and contact a veterinarian promptly. Get urgent veterinary help if your pet has facial swelling or trouble breathing.
About fire ants
Red imported fire ants are one of the world’s worst invasive species. They are dark reddish-brown with a darker brown-black abdomen. Nests can appear as flattish patches to mounds of soil up to 40cm high, with no obvious/visible entry or exit hole.
These ants can have significant impacts on our health, lifestyle, environment, industries, and economy.
Fire ants are aggressive and swarm in large numbers with a burning sting that can lead to anaphylactic allergic reactions.
NSW response
NSW DPIRD has activated its fire ant response plan and initial treatment of the Enfield Intermodal Logistics Centre has been completed.
Under RIFA Response Plan, the initial phase of the plan NSW DPIRD will be working closely with local businesses and the local community to build awareness and understand what measures need to be taken to identify, contain and eradicate the incursion.
A community drop-in centre will be established this week to help businesses and residents prepare before a Biosecurity Control Orders comes into effect by the end of October 2026
NSW DPIRD will be deploying a number of measures including surveillance, detection and (where necessary) treatment within 2 kilometres of the Enfield Intermodal Logistics Centre, including increasing surveillance and implementing treatment measures (if necessary).
Businesses and residents in the area are reminded to remain vigilant and call NSW DPIRD on 1800 680 244 if they come into contact with suspect ants.
For the latest information, see the Latest advice at the top of this page.