Veterinary clinical toxicology support for the Australian National Fire Ant Eradication Program

Challenge

Recent concerns among companion animal owners and veterinarians highlighted the need for a better understanding of the veterinary toxicological effects of red imported fire ants. There was also a need to assess the impacts of the pesticides used to control them (pyriproxyfen and S‑methoprene) on companion animals and other species within the affected biosecurity zones. (Figure 1).

Solution

SLR has worked extensively with the Australian National Fire Ant Eradication Program (NFAEP) to provide independent, science-based risk assessments and veterinary clinical toxicology diagnostic support. Through our experienced technical experts across multidisciplinary services, we were able to provide advice in the form of a detailed animal health technical brief.

NFAEP has been able to distribute the animal health technical brief(1) to veterinarians and the wider animal health professional community. The technical brief has also been used to support further risk communication to the general public via the development of a shorter key facts sheet.(2)

Impact

The animal health technical brief has become a vital resource for veterinarians and animal health professionals, providing clear, trusted guidance on fire ant treatments and their safety.

With false and misleading claims about the National Fire Ant Eradication Program and its products continuing to circulate, particularly online and within social media groups, the brief helps professionals identify and address misinformation directly.

By offering evidence-based information, it enables vets and animal health workers to have confident, fact-based conversations with clients, farmers, and the wider community, correcting misconceptions and reinforcing the serious risks posed by fire ants to animal health and safety.

Beyond supporting individual conversations, the brief also strengthens consistent messaging across the sector and helps maintain public trust in the program’s eradication activities.

This has improved engagement, reduced confusion, and ensured that accurate information is widely accessible to those who need it most.

SLR has provided outstanding independent scientific expertise to support the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, developing a clear and trusted animal health technical brief for veterinarians and animal health professionals. Their ability to translate complex toxicology into practical, evidence-based guidance has been invaluable in helping address misinformation and build confidence in the safety of our fire ant treatment activities. The National Fire Ant Eradication Program greatly values SLR’s professionalism, scientific integrity, and commitment to delivering high-quality advice that supports both industry and government in protecting Australia’s environment, animals, and communities.

National Fire Ant Eradication Program