June 24, 2026
Victorians are advised to remain alert following the detection of the H5 strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu virus) in migratory seabirds in Western Australia and South Australia.
According to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), at this stage, there is no evidence that the virus has spread beyond migratory birds, and it is too early to say whether H5 bird flu is established in Australian wildlife.
This is the first time this strain of bird flu has been detected in Australia. It is a highly contagious strain that can cause serious disease in birds and other wildlife.
There are currently no detections in Victoria, and no evidence of any mass mortality in wildlife or spread to other animals in Western Australia. There has been no detection in poultry. However, we’re reminded to stay vigilant and report any unusual bird deaths.
The current risk of bird flu to people in Australia is low. Bird flu is not a food safety risk for chicken meat and eggs if they are handled and cooked correctly.
Per DEECA, as we have seen the global spread of the H5 bird flu virus, Victoria has been focusing on preparedness and is well-advanced in support of early detection, assessment and response. If you see something unusual, don’t ignore it.
What to do:
If you see something unusual, don’t ignore it. Report any unusual bird deaths.
- Avoid contact with sick or dead birds or wildlife. Sick birds should not be taken into care. Record details, including the number and type of birds/animals, the location, date and time.
- Report clusters (5 or more) of sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria.
- Report even one sick or dead high-risk species: wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey (e.g. eagles, hawks); and marine mammal (e.g. seal, sea lion, dolphin).
- Please report it to Agriculture Victoria so it can be investigated via the online form or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Find out more via the Agriculture Victoria website or the Australian Government’s dedicated Bird Flu website.
