SciTech News

H5 bird flu update

30 September 2026

Australia’s H5 avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak has been detected in a growing number of wild birds and some wildlife species across several states and territories, including the first detections in Tasmania, the Jervis Bay Territory and Australian mammals such as a fur seal and red fox.

Despite these wildlife detections, there have been no cases in Australian poultry or the agricultural production system, and the risk to human health remains low. Authorities continue surveillance and response activities, urging the public to avoid contact with sick or dead animals and report any sightings through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline 675 888 from anywhere in Australia. Read more here.