THE invasive fire ant crisis continues to threaten Australia’s ecosystems and economy, with environmental advocates urging stronger leadership and targeted action from all levels of government.
Invasive Species Council CEO Jack Gough criticised the lack of political commitment to tackling invasive species in the wake of the recent Federal Election result.
“Nature lost this election,” Mr Gough said.
“Neither side put forward a serious plan to halt the decline of native species or repair our degraded landscapes.
There’s a real risk in treating climate policy as a stand-in for nature protection.”
While climate change remains a priority, Mr Gough warned that it could not replace specific strategies for combating invasive species like fire ants, now considered the leading cause of animal extinctions in Australia.
“Tackling climate change won’t stop invasive predators, and solar panels certainly won’t halt the spread of fire ants or feral deer. We need leadership, investment and practical action on the ground,” he said.
Fire ants alone could cost the national economy up to $2 billion annually.
Mr Gough urged the Federal Government to step up.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, although he clarified that the primary responsibility lay with state authorities.
“The Queensland Government is the lead on fire ants as with all biosecurity responses and has the appropriate operational experience to implement the response plan,” Mr Neumann said.
He added that the Federal Government was significantly increasing its support, pledging $296.4 million over four years – nearly four times the previous commitment.
At the local level, Ipswich City Council is playing its part. Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Councillor Jim Madden said Council was fulfilling its obligations under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
“As a landowner under the Biosecurity Act, Council is responsible for managing biosecurity risk on council-owned or controlled land, within reason,” Cr Madden said.
He encouraged residents to report any sightings of fire ants to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, which is managed by Biosecurity Queensland and supported by all levels of government. Sightings can be reported by calling 13 22 68.
Gough issued a final warning: “Looking away while our native species vanish isn’t just bad policy – it’s against who we are as Australians.”
