Where it’s found
H5 bird flu is a global concern. It has spread quickly across the world through the movement of wild birds.
In June 2026, Australia had its first detection of the H5N1 strain, on an isolated beach in the Cape Le Grand National Park on Western Australia’s southern coast.
You can read more on this detection and current response at birdflu.gov.au.
What it affects
H5 bird flu can affect a variety of animals. This includes wild and domestic birds, and mammals.
Overseas outbreaks show that H5 bird flu could have significant impacts on our wildlife and agriculture industry, especially poultry, and communities if it spreads and establishes in Australia.
How to protect against H5 bird flu
There is no way to prevent new strains of bird flu entering Australia with migratory wild birds or transmission between wild birds.
Find out how to protect your birds and Australia’s unique wildlife from possible outbreaks of H5 bird flu.
Poultry producers and domestic bird owners should take measures to protect their birds against H5 bird flu.
People who manage wildlife populations can take steps to prepare for a potential outbreak.
You need to be aware of:
- the signs and symptoms of H5 bird flu
- how it spreads
- how to prepare your property or site
- how we prevent and prepare for H5 bird flu.
Report a concern
Report any suspected outbreaks. See how to report a concern.