Australia is home to many different spiders and living in Brisbane means you may occasionally encounter them in your home, garden or outdoor spaces. While most spider bites are harmless, a few species such as the funnel-web spider and redback spider can cause serious health problems.
Because of this, recognising spider bite symptoms, applying the correct first aid and seeking medical treatment when necessary becomes essential.
This article explains everything you need to know about spider bites in Australia, including:
- Common spiders that bite in Brisbane and across Queensland
- Symptoms of funnel-web, redback, white tail and other spider bites
- First aid treatment and when to call for emergency help
- Prevention tips to reduce your risk of spider bites
- Frequently asked questions about spider bites in Australia
Common Spiders That Bite in Brisbane and Australia
Although Australia has more than 2,000 species of spiders, only a handful cause significant medical concerns.
Funnel-web spiders
Funnel-web spiders are found along the eastern coast, including parts of Queensland and New South Wales. Their venom is highly toxic to humans and without immediate treatment, bites can be fatal. Thankfully, anti-venom has made deaths extremely rare.
Redback spiders
Redback spiders are common across Brisbane and other parts of Australia. You will often find them in sheds, under outdoor furniture or near garden equipment. Female redbacks are easy to identify with their red stripe. Their bites are very painful, but anti venom makes serious complications unlikely.
White tail spiders
White tail spiders often live indoors, hiding in bedding, clothes or towels. Their bites can cause burning pain, redness and swelling. Contrary to old myths, white tail spider bites do not cause skin ulcers or necrosis.
Huntsman spiders
Large and fast, huntsman spiders often scare people, but they rarely cause more than mild pain and swelling when they bite.
Other spiders in Brisbane
Wolf spiders orb weavers, garden spiders and trapdoor spiders may bite if disturbed, but their bites generally cause only mild irritation.
Symptoms of Spider Bites
Symptoms vary depending on the spider species.
Funnel-web spider bite symptoms
- Severe pain at the bite site
- Profuse sweating
- Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain
- Drooling and muscle twitching
- Breathing difficulties and confusion
- Numbness around the mouth and tongue
- Unconsciousness in severe cases
Funnel-web symptoms appear quickly, usually within an hour.
Redback spider bite symptoms
- Immediate and spreading pain
- Sweating (often one-sided)
- Muscle weakness or spasms
- Headache and fatigue
- Nausea in some cases
Redback symptoms may last for hours or even days without treatment.
White tail spider bite symptoms
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Redness and swelling
- Small blisters
Huntsman and other spider bite symptoms
- Mild localised pain
- Slight swelling or redness
- Minimal or no systemic symptoms
When to Seek Medical Care for a Spider Bite
You should treat every bite with care.
Call triple zero (000) immediately if:
- You suspect a funnel-web spider bite
- You experience breathing difficulties, confusion or collapse
- You show signs of anaphylaxis (swollen throat, noisy breathing, dizziness or collapse)
Book a GP appointment in Brisbane if:
- You have been bitten by a redback and the pain is severe
- Symptoms worsen after 24–48 hours
- The bite looks infected or feels unusually painful
- You are worried or unsure about the bite
First Aid for Spider Bites
Quick and correct first aid can save lives.
Funnel-web or mouse spider bite first aid
- Keep the patient calm and still
- Apply a pressure immobilisation bandage over the bite and wrap the entire limb
- Splint the limb to prevent movement
- Mark the bite site and record the time
- Wait for paramedics to arrive
Redback spider bite first aid
- Wash the area with soap and water
- Apply a cold pack for 15 minutes
- Avoid pressure bandages (they are not effective for redback bites)
- Seek medical care if symptoms are severe
White tail, huntsman and other spider bite first aid
- Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water
- Apply antiseptic cream if available
- Use a cold pack to reduce pain and swelling
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief
- See a doctor if symptoms do not settle
Preventing Spider Bites in Brisbane
You can reduce your risk of spider bites with these practical tips:
- Wear gloves while gardening or moving firewood
- Shake out shoes, clothes and bedding before use
- Keep outdoor areas tidy to reduce hiding spots
- Remove webs and safely relocate spiders outside
- Teach children not to touch spiders
Complications of Spider Bites
Most spider bites heal without problems. However, complications may include:
- Infection, if the bite becomes red, hot or pus-filled
- Allergic reactions, which can vary from mild to severe
- Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction requiring urgent care
Frequently Asked Questions about Spider Bites
Can spider bites kill you in Australia?
Yes, but it is extremely rare. Funnel-web spider bites can be fatal without treatment. However, antivenom has prevented deaths since its introduction.
How quickly do spider bite symptoms appear?
Funnel-web bites cause symptoms within minutes to an hour. Redback and white tail bites cause pain almost immediately, with other symptoms developing more slowly.
Do all spider bites need medical attention?
No. Most bites can be treated at home with first aid. However, seek medical care if the bite causes severe pain, swelling, infection or allergic symptoms.
Do white tail spider bites cause ulcers?
No. Scientific evidence shows that white tail spider bites do not cause necrosis or ulcers. They may be painful, but they heal without long-term damage.
Is antivenom available for all spider bites?
No. Antivenom is available only for funnel-web and redback spiders. Other bites are treated with first aid and pain management.
Conclusion
Most spider bites in Australia cause only mild irritation and heal on their own. However, funnel-web and redback spider bites require urgent medical attention. By learning how to recognise spider bite symptoms, applying the right first aid and knowing when to call for help, you can protect yourself and your family. At Berkeley Medical Centre in Kenmore, our doctors provide care for spider bites, allergic reactions and other health concerns. Our team can assess your bite, recommend treatment and support your recovery.
