Last Updated: 24/06/2026
Avian influenza (Bird flu) in Australia 2026
Discover the most recent updates and comprehensive information on Avian Influenza (bird flu) in Australia.
Author: Dr Olivia Clarke BSc BVMS MANZCVS (Unusual Pets, Avian)
Reading Time: 6 minutes - short read
In June 2026, the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of avian influenza (bird flu) was detected in Australia for the very first time. This marks a significant shift in the local biosecurity landscape, as previous Australian outbreaks involved different strains.
While the risk to indoor pets remains low, strict biosecurity and vigilance are now more critical than ever for all bird owners, backyard poultry keepers, and pet parents.
In this article
- What is avian influenza?
- Who is at risk?
- How is avian influenza transmitted?
- What are the clinical signs of avian influenza in bird?
- How can I protect my birds from avian influenza?
- What do I do if my bird gets sick?
- Can my other pets get avian influenza?
- Can I get avian influenza?
- Is there a vaccine?
- Where can I find more information?
What is avian influenza?
Avian influenza or 'bird flu' is a virus that has the ability to cause widespread, catastrophic mortalities to wild birds, domestic birds, especially poultry and non-avian species. Certain strains of this virus such as H5N1 also have the ability to infect domestic and wild mammals as well as humans.
This virus circulates in flocks of wild migratory birds with low pathogenicity - this means it causes mild or no disease, akin to a mild cold.
This low pathogenic form of the virus, low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) can be transmitted from wild birds to domestic birds, particularly poultry flocks, where it can then mutate to become highly pathogenic causing serious disease and death. This is known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and is responsible for the avian influenza outbreaks globally, including Australia. As chickens represent 70% of all birds worldwide they are a major reservoir where the virus continues to evolve.
In June 2026, HPAI strain H5N1 was confirmed in two seabirds in Western Australia. This is the first time H5N1 has been detected in Australia.
Who is at risk?
All species of birds can become infected with avian influenza including pet birds. However wild birds and birds that are outdoors and/or come into contact with wild birds either directly or indirectly via food and water sources are most at risk. Chickens, waterfowl and aviary birds are at much higher risk than indoor pet birds that do not interact with other birds.
Following outbreaks in 2024, the arrival of the global H5N1 strain in June 2026 means wild birds and outdoor flocks face an elevated risk.
How is avian influenza transmitted?
The virus can be transmitted a number of ways. The main mode of transmission being the faeco-oral route. This means that virus particles are shed in the droppings of infected birds and are then ingested by other birds, often through contaminated food and water sources. The virus can also be transmitted by direct contact and through fomites. Fomites refers to the virus being carried on surfaces like clothing, shoes and equipment.
What are the clinical signs of avian influenza in bird?
The most classic signs are respiratory signs including:
- nasal discharge
- ocular (eye) discharge
- swelling around the eyes (sinus infection)
- difficulty breathing (dyspnoea)
- Blue or purple discolouration to wattles or comb (cyanosis)
Neurological signs:
- Twisted neck (torticollis)
- wobbliness/off balance (ataxia)
- Tremors
- Seizures
Gastrointestinal signs:
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
Non-specific signs:
- Sudden death
- Reduced egg production
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Fluffed up
- Closing eyes
- Watery droppings (polyuria)
How can I protect my birds from avian influenza?
During an outbreak you should keep birds indoors and prevent access to wildlife. This includes preventing wild bird access to food and water bowls and any other equipment that may be used by your birds. Do not transport birds or let your birds interact with other birds. If you are located in a restricted area then you will need to contact the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) hotline to obtain a permit from the government if you need to transport your bird for emergency reasons. You should avoid contact with unfamiliar and wild birds and ensure you wash your hands well before handling your birds after you have been out.
If you are unable to bring your birds inside then it is important that you take as many precautions as possible to prevent exposure to wildlife. Keep birds contained and do not allow them to venture into areas where wild birds inhabit. Ensure the aviary or enclosure has a secure, enclosed roof so that wild birds and their droppings cannot enter the cage. Ensure wild birds cannot access water or food bowls or food storage. Strict hygiene and biosecurity practices are extremely important. This includes washing hands after handling birds and eggs as well as thorough and regular sanitation of all equipment with disinfectant such as F10.
Even if there is no current outbreak, it's important to stay vigilent to protect your bird and reduce their risk of contracting avian influenza or any other infectious diseases. Recommendations include:
- Keeping pet birds and backyard chickens isolated from wild birds with appropriate aviary and hutch constructs, fencing and other biosecurity measures
- Avoid feeding wild birds or encouraging contact with wild birds
- Avoid taking your bird to any bird shows or around any unfamiliar birds
- Quarantine any new birds for at least 6 weeks before being introduced to other birds in the home. Any new birds should also undergo a health check and possibly infectious disease testing with an avian veterinarian
- Regular vet checks with an avian vet at least every 12 months
- Maintain good sanitation of all your bird's equipment and aviary and hand hygiene practices at home
What do I do if my bird gets sick?
If your bird becomes sick you will need to visit your veterinarian sooner rather than later as birds often don't show signs of illness until very late in the disease process.
During an avian influenza outbreak however, you should call the vet clinic prior to arrival and they will conduct a risk assessment and advise you on what to do. You may be asked to wait in the car and your vet may need to test your bird for avian flu. If you are located in a restricted emergency zone then you must contact the EAD hotline for further advice on what to do.
Vet clinics that regularly see domestic birds are not advised to see wild or stray birds during an avian influenza outbreak and need to take special precautions when seeing sick pet birds including testing for avian influenza, using personal protective equipment (PPE) and housing sick birds in isolation wards. Please call your vet ahead of time if you need to bring in a sick bird. During an outbreak it is recommended that stray birds and wild birds are taken to general practice vets, shelter and wildlife hospitals that do not routinely see pet birds.
It is important to be aware that avian influenza is a notifiable disease in Australia. This means that if there is a suspected or confirmed case that the government must be notified.
Can my other pets get avian influenza?
While H5N1 has been known globally to occasionally affect other species, the risk to your domestic pets in Australia remains low if they are kept away from wild birds. However H5N1 has been shown to cause severe illness in cats. Cats should be kept indoors and supervise dogs when outdoors in areas where seabirds or other wild birds are. Other strains that were previously present in Australia have not been identified in other species and the risk for infection with these strains is considered low.
Can I get avian influenza?
There are several strains of avian influenza, some of which are infectious to humans and can be transmitted between humans. Human infections of the H5N1 strain have been reported globally but infection in humans is rare. Though the risk is low, it is important for everyone, especially those in contact with birds, take the necessary precautions to protect themselves including proper hand washing and strict biosecurity measures. For more information on biosecurity recommendations you can visit the links below.
Is there a vaccine?
There is no vaccine available for domestic birds in Australia at this time. Restricting movement of birds and strong biosecurity practices are key to containing the virus and preventing widespread dissemination in domestic birds.
Where can I find more information?
See the following website links for more information on avian influenza from the Australian government.
Australian Government, Bird Flu
Wildlife Health Australia, H5 Bird Flu
NSW Health, Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)
Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) hotline: 1800 675 888
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Wed 17 Jul 2024
Written by Dr Olivia Clarke BSc BVMS MANZCVS (Unusual Pets, Avian)Dr Olivia Clarke BSc BVMS MANZCVS (Unusual Pets, Avian)
Veterinarian
Dr Olivia graduated from Murdoch University in 2015 and worked in Western Australia before moving to Sydney to work in specialist practice as an avian and exotics veterinarian. Olivia has thoroughly enjoyed the diversity of species and interesting cases in her time as an exotics veterinarian. She has a particular soft spot for rabbits and thoroughly enjoys all aspects of rabbit medicine and surgery. She also has many years of experience working with dogs and cats as well as an array of wildlife.
