Control order

A poultry housing requirement for poultry flocks of 50 or more birds is in place in Victoria for certain local government areas in metropolitan Melbourne and areas along the south of the state.

The requirement has been introduced as a precautionary measure for an initial period of 14 days from 7 August while surveillance and investigations into H5 bird flu continue.

Affected poultry owners must house their birds or otherwise prevent contact with wild birds. All poultry and bird owners across Victoria are encouraged to maintain stringent biosecurity practices to reduce the risk of disease. This includes protecting feed and water sources from wild birds, maintaining clean enclosures and monitoring birds for signs of illness.

Poultry owners and bird keepers should continue to review their biosecurity arrangements and remain prepared.