Varroa mite in Queensland update

This number is expected to rise as beekeepers continue testing their hives and the weather warms up. Additionally, with the pest now present in migratory hives, we also expect to see increased distances between detections in addition to natural spread.

The Queensland Department of Primary Industries is urging beekeepers to increase their hive monitoring frequency from every 16 weeks to monthly and to use decontamination practices between apiaries. Although early infestations may appear manageable, this is often followed by sudden hive collapse as mite loads intensify.

To track the pest’s spread, Queensland uses a real-time varroa mite surveillance map. This map is built using data captured from health check reports via Bee 123 as well as government-led surveillance. It follows the National Heat Map Standard with each grid square representing approximately 100 square kilometres.

What beekeepers must do

Now that varroa mite is established in Queensland, routine monthly monitoring is essential. Beekeepers should use a standard 300-bee sample method (either alcohol wash or drone uncapping) to track mite loads and determine when treatment is needed. The same method should be used each time to compare results over time.

Treatment thresholds vary by season, but as a rule of thumb:

• Summer: 9+ mites per 300 bees = immediate control required.
• Autumn/Winter/Spring: 5+ mites per 300 bees = control action needed.

 Smaller apiaries should test every hive. Larger operations should sample at least 10 hives per site, including both central and edge colonies.

Every detection of varroa mite must be reported to state authorities. Anyone in Queensland who finds varroa mite in their hives must report it to Biosecurity Queensland. You can report varroa mite:

• using the online Bee 123 form (preferred)
• calling Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23
• emailing varroa@dpi.qld.gov.au.

 As Queensland shifts to managing varroa mite long-term, recordkeeping obligations now apply to all beekeepers. You must maintain accessible records (hard copy or digital) for:

• chemical usage
• bee and hive movements
• hive inspections and results.

 Chemical usage and movement records

Under the Chemical Usage (Agricultural and Veterinary) Control Regulation 2017, agricultural chemicals used to manage pests like varroa mite must comply with the product label, APVMA permit and safety data sheet (SDS). You must record each application, including:

• product name
• purpose of use
• name of user and landowner/occupier
• supervisor (if applicable)
• date and weather conditions
• method and application rate.

 Keep up to date with the various chemicals and their stage of permit registration by heading to the AHBIC chemical treatment table.

 Every time bees or hives are moved from their usual location, a movement record must be created before relocation. This applies to:

• all hive movements outside your property
• buying and selling bees
• colonised hive relocations.

 Records must be legible and retained for 2 years. One-off movements can use the single-use form and regular movers of hives can request a movement and apiary record book by emailing varroa@dpi.qld.gov.au.

All hive inspections and varroa mite monitoring events must be documented. This includes:

• what was inspected or tested
• when it occurred
• who conducted it
• the results.

 The Bee 123 form is the recommended platform, but other formats, electronic or paper, are acceptable.

Beekeepers must stay vigilant. Early detection and consistent monitoring are now the frontline defence against varroa mite.

Community Bee Innovation Fund

Have you got an inventive idea that could help Queensland beekeepers and pollination-reliant growers manage varroa mite? Community Bee Innovation Fund (CBIF) grants of between $5,000 and $50,000 are available to help deliver innovative varroa mite management tools or education and training in Queensland. Round 2 is now open, with applications closing at 5pm AEST on 18 August 2025. For more information email varroamitegrants@dpi.qld.gov.au.

To keep up to date with the latest varroa mite situation, subscribe to the bee e-alert at dpi.qld.gov.au/news-media.