Redback spiders (Latrodectus hasselti) are venomous and medically significant in Australia, but their bites are generally not considered life-threatening with modern care. Only the female bite is dangerous; the venom can cause severe local or regional pain, sweating, nausea, and other systemic symptoms. The Australian Museum notes that redbacks have caused deaths historically, yet no deaths have occurred since antivenom was introduced.
Bites are relatively common in warmer months, but many are ineffective because of the spider’s small jaws, and redbacks rarely leave their webs. First aid is an ice pack for pain (not a pressure bandage); seek medical attention for significant symptoms.