Red Imported Fire Ant
About the pest
Red imported fire ant (RIFA) is one of the worst invasive species due to their extensive damage to ecological and agricultural systems. It is recognised as a significant pest under the National Environmental Biosecurity Response Agreement (NEBRA).
Red imported fire ants (RIFA) were first detected in Australia in Queensland in 2001. Governments have worked collectively to eradicate them ever since.
RIFA has not been detected in the ACT.
Biosecurity (Fire Ant) Control Declaration 2025 | Notifiable instruments
Why they are a problem
Red imported fire ants can:
- harm our environment and industries such as farming
- make outdoor activities like barbeques and picnics unsafe
- sting people, pets and livestock, causing pain and allergic reactions
- damage natural areas, gardens and crops
They are classed as category 1 restricted matter under the National Environmental Biosecurity Response Agreement.
What to look for
Fire ants are copper brown in colour, with a darker abdomen. They range in size from 2 to 6 millimetres long and are very aggressive. A single nest can contain ants of many different sizes This video shows you how to identify fire ants.
Fire ants can survive in most climates and invade both indoor and outdoor areas.
How it spreads
Fire ants can move quickly and easily.
- Flying ants can travel up to 5 kilometres
- They can move through soil, build tunnels, and even float on water after floods or heavy rain
- They may be found on soil, mulch, fertiliser or plant material
- They can also be found on goods, vehicles and shipping containers
Report sightings
Report any suspected sightings to:
- Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881
- Fire Ant Eradication Hotline: 13 22 68
- ACT Biosecurity at ACTBiosecurity@act.gov.au
- Notify Access Caberra on 13 22 81.