Deadly H5N1 bird flu strain detected in Victoria for first time

Victoria has confirmed its first detection of the deadly H5N1 bird flu strain, identified in a seabird near the state's southwest coast. The discovery has triggered the activation of Victoria's State Emergency Animal Disease Response Plan.

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Following weeks of enhanced readiness, we have now enacted Victoria's State Emergency Animal Disease Response Plan.

Agriculture Victoria announced the virus was detected in a greater crested tern found close to Portland. Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Graeme Cooke stated that further genetic testing is underway to confirm the result. "Following weeks of enhanced readiness, we have now enacted Victoria's State Emergency Animal Disease Response Plan," Dr. Cooke said. He noted that this H5 variant differs from previous strains and has been known to cause significant mortality in wild birds and some mammals.

The response plan aims to mitigate impacts, particularly on threatened species, while supporting farmers and reducing risks to domestic and commercial poultry. This detection follows recent occurrences of H5 bird flu in South Australia, where local transmission was observed among greater crested terns. The strain was initially detected in Australia in a brown skua in Western Australia in June and has since spread along the southern coast through migratory birds.

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Based on international experience, this H5 variant differs from previous strains and has been known to cause large numbers of deaths in wild birds and some mammals.

Victorian producers are particularly concerned, as the state experienced severe repercussions from the H7N8 strain outbreak in 2024, which led to the culling of nearly 2 million birds and disrupted egg supplies. Dr. Cooke urged poultry owners to review their biosecurity practices, emphasizing the importance of clean facilities, quarantining new birds, limiting contact with wild birds, and maintaining personal hygiene.

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Our plans aim to limit impacts where possible, particularly on our most threatened species, while also supporting our farmers and reducing risk to domestic and commercial poultry.

Agriculture Victoria is also advising the public to exercise caution around sick or dead birds and to report any suspected cases. The confirmation of H5N1 in Victoria marks a significant development in the ongoing spread of the virus across Australia.

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Poultry owners can help protect their birds by keeping sheds, yards and equipment clean, quarantining new birds and limiting contact between poultry and wild birds.