25/06/2026
Victorians are being urged to remain vigilant after the H5 strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu) was detected in a migratory seabird in Western Australia.
This is a significant development as it 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 wild animals.
There are currently no detections in Victoria, but authorities are reminding us to stay aware and report anything unusual. The 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 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:
• wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey (e.g. eagles, hawks)
• marine mammal (e.g. seal, sea lion, dolphin).
Please report it to Agriculture Victoria so it can be investigated via the website agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdflu or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Follow on Facebook for updates and check out birdflu.gov.au for information about the situation across Australia.
For advice on managing dead birds on your land visit: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/poultry-diseases/avian-influenza-bird-flu/managing-dead-birds-and-wildlife-on-your-land
For advice about backyard poultry visit: https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/poultry-diseases/avian-influenza-bird-flu/avian-influenza-information-for-backyard-poultry-owners
