Sydney inner west suburbs locked down as deadly fire ant threat escalates

A biosecurity lockdown has been imposed across multiple inner west suburbs in Sydney as authorities ramp up the fight against deadly fire ants.

The strict measures kicked in on Monday, covering a 2km radius surrounding a freight facility in Strathfield where a fire ant nest was discovered five weeks ago.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Sydney suburbs locked down over fire ant outbreak

Despite being no bigger than 6mm long, the invasive species poses a nationwide threat, with experts warning that 95 per cent of Australia is suitable habitat for the pests.

“They’re designed to really evolve and survive,” NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development executive director of biosecurity Lisa Szabo said.

The ants can be lethal to humans and devastate local wildlife. Underground, a queen is able to lay up to 5000 eggs every day.

Businesses in the affected area will now be required to have a biosecurity plan in place, with strict controls on transporting high-risk materials including turf, mulch, soil, potted plants and heavy equipment.

Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty warned of severe consequences for those who breach the rules.

“It can be up to $1 million for individuals, $2 million for businesses if people knowingly do the wrong thing,” she said.

Calls are now mounting for a review into how the fire ants arrived in Australia from overseas.

Reece Pianta from the Invasive Species Council said the focus must be on prevention.

“This is about our freight system, our border biosecurity, how we handle imports at every international arrival point,” he said.

Over the past two weeks, there have been 400 calls to a hotline reporting possible cases, but each has been ruled out.

Authorities are urging people to contact Primary Industries if they spot the pests before the outbreak can spread further.