when was the fire ant introduced to australia
Red imported fire ant Red imported fire ants were first discovered in Queensland, Australia, in 2001.[121][122] The ants were believed to be present in shipping containers arriving at the Port of Brisbane, most likely from North America.[123] Anecdotal evidence suggests fire ants may have been present in Australia for six to eight years prior to formal identification. The potential damage from the red imported fire ant prompted the Australian government to respond rapidly. A joint state and federal funding of A$175 million was granted for a six-year eradication programme.[124][125][126] Following years of eradication, eradication rates of greater than 99% from previously infested properties were reported. The program received extended Commonwealth funding of around A$10 million for at least another two years to treat the residual infestations found most recently.[127] In December 2014, a nest was identified at Port Botany, Sydney, in New South Wales. The port was quarantined, and a removal operation took place.[128] In September 2015, populations originating from the United States were found at a Brisbane airport.[129]