June 24, 2026
Victorians are advised to remain alert following the detection of two cases of the H5 strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu) in migratory seabirds in Western Australia.
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, however, we’re reminded to stay vigilant and report any unusual bird deaths.
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 Agriculture Victoria website or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Find out more via the Australian Government’s dedicated Bird Flu website.
