H5 bird flu update as cases spread to new regions

12 August 2026

Reports from community members and land managers across the state continue to play a critical role in pinpointing new cases of H5 bird flu in Victoria.

A further 7 cases of H5 bird flu have been detected in greater crested terns in Phillip Island, Mildura, Warrnambool, Hamilton, Hawkesdale and St Andrews Beach. The new cases bring the total current number to 60 statewide.

Chief Biodiversity Officer James Todd said the detections in new parts of the state – including at Seal Rocks on Phillip Island – were significant developments, but ones that were anticipated based on the spread of the virus in the south-west of the state.

'These detections show us that the virus is continuing to move through wild bird populations, and its ability to move across large regions.

'We know many Victorians are concerned about potential impacts on Phillip Island's little penguin population. There have been no detections in penguins anywhere in Australia, including Victoria, and the situation is being closely monitored.

'Together with Phillip Island Nature Parks and wildlife experts, we have been preparing for the potential arrival of H5 bird flu through response planning, biosecurity measures and conservation programs, and that preparation is now supporting our response.

‘We know it is distressing to see sick or dead wildlife, especially in coastal communities that have a strong connection to their local environment.

'We continue to work with Phillip Island Nature Parks to support surveillance and further proactive efforts to protect at-risk species and locations, as well as in regions across the state where they have been recent detections,' Mr Todd said.

While so far there have been no detections of H5 bird flu in poultry or livestock, a housing requirement for owners with 50 or more birds was introduced on Friday in coastal and southern local government areas, as a precautionary measure while the situation is evolving.

Community members should avoid touching sick or dead wildlife wherever possible and keep pets away from animals and carcasses. If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife, report via the Agriculture Victoria website or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline (1800 675 888).

To keep up to date with Victoria’s response to H5 bird flu, visit the Agriculture Victoria website (agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdflu).

Media contact: sboc.media@agriculture.vic.gov.au