July 29, 2026
The National Farmers’ Federation has urged farmers to review their biosecurity plans urgently, as the H5N1 strain of avian influenza spreads.
Testing confirmed on Wednesday that the influenza strain has spread between wild birds on Australian soil for the first time since the disease’s detection last month.
The local transmission of H5 bird flu is between a number of Greater Crested Terns in South Australia, this is the first time the virus has been confirmed as being transmitted between birds within Australia.
The Greater Crested Terns returned positive test results for the H5 virus, which have now been sent to the CSIRO for confirmation.
NFF CEO Mike Guerin said the news was unwelcome but not unexpected.
“Unfortunately, this is a turning point in the spread of this disease,” Mr Guerin said.
“We take comfort in the fact there’s been no mass mortality events, and there have been no detections in agriculture.
“But while this outbreak is currently a concern for wildlife, now is the time for all farmers to review their biosecurity plans.
“Bird flu poses a serious threat to poultry, as well as a much smaller cross-species risk across livestock industries.
“It’s imperative that farmers record accurate people and animal movements in their biosecurity plans and look for ways to reduce risks.”
There are now 27 confirmed cases of H5 bird flu in Australia, across four States: 14 in South Australia, 10 in Western Australia, two in NSW and one in Queensland.
Mr Guerin said the spread of the disease reinforced the importance of strong biosecurity.
“We continue to advocate for the strengthening of Australia’s biosecurity systems,” Mr Guerin said.
“We’ll keep working closely with government and our members to monitor the situation and support a coordinated national response.
“Industry and government have both invested heavily for years to prepare for this, and have learned lessons from outbreaks of other strains, including H7.”
Farmers should report any sick birds or animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800-675-888.
- External link: Bird Flu (Avian Influenza)
- Related article: Petrel Tests Positive To Bird Flu
