H5 bird flu detection in Western Australia

20 June 2026

Victorians are being urged to remain alert after the H5 strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu) was detected in a migratory seabird in Western Australia.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) is monitoring the situation closely in Western Australia and enhanced preparedness planning is in place for the potential arrival of H5 bird flu in Victoria.

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 is a significant development, but there are currently no detections in Victoria. Authorities are reminding all Victorians to stay aware and report anything unusual.

There have been no detections in poultry and there is no evidence of mortalities in other species at this time.

Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Graeme Cooke said the detection in the southern coast of Western Australia reinforced the importance of simple actions that help detect disease early.

“There have been no detections in Victoria, but this event in Western Australia is a timely reminder that the risk exists and vigilance is essential.”

“If you see something unusual, don’t ignore it. Avoid contact, record the details and report it so it can be investigated.

“Please report clusters of five or more sick or dead birds anywhere in Victoria to Agriculture Victoria.”

“We also want to hear about even a single case involving higher-risk species including pelicans, birds of prey such as hawks, owls and eagles, black swans, or marine animals like seals, sea lions and dolphins,” Dr Cooke said.

Victoria’s Chief Biodiversity Officer James Todd said agencies across Australia had been preparing for a potential detection given the seasonal arrival of migratory birds and their association with the global spread of avian influenza.

“Based on overseas experience, this disease can spread through bird populations and potentially other wildlife once it is established, which is why early detection and strong preparedness are so important,” Mr Todd said.

“We’ve seen internationally that H5 bird flu can have significant impacts on wildlife, particularly bird populations, and can also affect some mammal species.

“This detection highlights the importance of taking a precautionary approach and working closely with partners across the country to monitor and prepare,” said Mr Todd.

The Victorian Government is working closely with industry, wildlife experts and land managers to maintain preparedness arrangements, incorporating lessons learned from recent unrelated avian influenza outbreaks in Victoria. This includes monitoring for early signs of the virus in wildlife and poultry and developing mitigation strategies to help protect high-risk species.

Victorians should not touch, move or collect sick or dead birds or wildlife, as this can increase the risk of disease spread. If safe to do so, people should record what they see, including the number and type of animals, the location, date and time, and take photos or video where possible.

This information should then be reported to Agriculture Victoria via the website or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. Reports are critical, particularly where there are multiple dead birds, or cases involving higher risk species such as birds of prey, waterbirds or marine mammals.

Following a report, DEECA will assess whether further investigation or testing is required. Early reporting supports rapid response and helps protect Victoria’s wildlife and poultry industries.

Poultry farmers and veterinarians should report any suspect disease by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888. Owners of pet birds or backyard chickens are encouraged to contact their local veterinarian or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline if animals show signs of illness.

Bird owners are reminded that strong biosecurity practices remain essential, including keeping enclosures and equipment clean, quarantining new birds and minimising contact between domestic birds and wild birds.

Further information about avian influenza, reporting suspected cases, and biosecurity for bird owners including guidance on responding to sick or dead wildlife go to agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdflu

Media contact: media@deeca.vic.gov.au