On the 18 October 2023, the following matter was referred to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee for inquiry and report by 18 April 2024.

1. the expected costs and impacts, if red imported fire ants are able to spread across Australia, on human health, social amenity, agriculture, the environment, infrastructure and regional workers;
2. an assessment of the current and any proposed fire ant response plans for achieving the eradication of red imported fire ants;
3. an evaluation of funding provided for the current or any proposed fire ant response plans;
4. the effectiveness of eradication efforts and the spread of fire ants;
5. learnings of Varroa mite in managing red imported fire ants; and
6. any other related matters

Submissions closed on 01 December 2023.

On the 29 November 2023, the committee agreed to extend the submission's closing date to 29 January 2024.