Red imported fire ant discovery in Sydney

A nest of red imported fire ants was discovered at the Enfield Intermodal Logistics Centre in Sydney’s inner west. Officials from the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry believe the ants were likely imported via an overseas shipping container. While the initial nest was destroyed and surveillance by detection dog teams found no additional nests, authorities expanded their focus to inspecting properties within a 500-metre radius and searching within a 2-kilometre radius.

Following the discovery, a biosecurity control order was implemented for a two-kilometre radius around the facility. This lockdown, set for an initial six-month period, imposes strict restrictions on the movement of high-risk materials such as soil, turf, mulch, potted plants, and heavy equipment. Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty noted that while daily life for residents continues as normal, businesses must properly treat and handle these materials before they can be moved out of the zone.

The Invasive Species Council has warned that if the species becomes established across Australia, it could cost the economy up to $2 billion annually.