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An Irukandji jellyfish has been caught off the western side of Queensland’s Fraser Island, but the incident isn’t a one-off.

Last summer 14 people had to be medevaced off beaches due to the extremely nasty stings.

The critters pose serious concerns for the tourism industry and whether Australia is prepared.

Michael McLaren speaks with leading authority on marine stings James Cook University Professor Jamie Seymour.

“The issue is people don’t quite get an understanding for just how bad this is.

“You’ve got an animal that’s the size of your thumbnail that you literally can’t see… and then you’re life just goes to hell in a handbasket.

The jellyfish have traditionally been found up in the far north, but have started making their way down south.

Mr Seymour says it’s related to water temperature.

“As the water temperature increases, the animals go further and further south.

“I have absolutely no doubt in my lifetime we are going to see these animals regularly.

“This is huge for the tourist industry.”

Listen to the full interview below