Funnel-web and mouse spiders
Call 000Do now Keep them still. Bandage the limb firmly. Do not try to catch the spider.
Police, fire and ambulance. Free from any phone.112 works from a mobile. 106 is the text relay if you are deaf or have a speech impairment. Need an interpreter? Say “I want a [your language] interpreter”.Stay on the line. The call taker may give you first aid instructions.Not sure where you are? The free Emergency+ app shows your location. Install it before you need it.
SourcesQueensland Ambulance Service — calling an ambulanceTriple Zero — Australian GovernmentEmergency+ app
Funnel-webs live along eastern Australia from northern Queensland to Tasmania and in parts of South Australia. Mouse spiders are found all over the country. First aid is a pressure bandage and keeping the person still, and an ambulance.
- The male Sydney funnel-web is considered Australia’s most dangerous spider. It is not found in Victoria.
- Treat a bite from a large, dark spider as dangerous, especially around Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the NSW highlands and south coast, or south-east Queensland.
- Do not try to catch the spider. A photo on a phone is fine, but do not let it delay the bandage.
- Since antivenom was introduced there have been no recorded deaths from a confirmed spider bite.
SourcesANZCOR — spider bite (9.4.2)Better Health Channel — spidersBetter Health Channel — bites and stings first aid