Victoria’s $20 million funding to eradicate the fire ant

You may have missed this in yesterday’s State budget.

Over $20 million over the next four years has been allocated to eradicate the red imported fire ant. 

Andrew Cox, CEO of the Invasive Species Council says the ant is ‘one of the world’s worst invasive species.’

‘When they bite you it feels like you’re on fire,’ Mr. Cox told Ross and John. 

He says the ants reached Australia from South American cargo about 16 years ago. 

Despite the problem mainly being in Brisbane and New South Wales, Mr. Cox says every State’s contribution will help in bating the pests. 

‘It will take about 10 years and $380 million.

‘It is about crops, it is about the environment, it is about human health.’  

Click PLAY below to hear more.