Common House Spiders on the Gold Coast: What's Actually in Your Home

Huntsman spiders: big, fast, harmless

Huntsman spiders are the ones that cause the most alarm, mainly because of their size and how quickly they move across a wall or ceiling. They are not dangerous to humans, and they are genuinely useful to have around outside, since they eat other insects including cockroaches. Most households still want them out of the living room regardless, which is entirely reasonable.

Daddy long legs and wolf spiders

Daddy long legs are the thin, delicate spiders often found in corners and garages, and are harmless. Wolf spiders are ground dwelling, more commonly seen outside or in garages than indoors, and are also harmless to humans despite a robust appearance.

The one that actually matters: redbacks

The redback is the spider on the Gold Coast that genuinely warrants professional pest control, since its bite can be medically significant. Redbacks tend to favour dry, sheltered outdoor spots, sheds, under furniture, garden edges, rather than living indoors. A full guide to keeping them out of the yard specifically is covered in our redback spider backyard guide.

Why more spiders show up as it warms up

Warmer weather brings more insect activity, which is the actual food source drawing spiders indoors and around the property. More prey around the house means more spiders following it, which is why sightings pick up heading into the warmer months.

Frequently asked questions