South Australians are being urged to remain alert after the H5 strain of bird flu was detected for the first time in Australia, with authorities confirming the virus in a migratory seabird in Western Australia.
The discovery has prompted the South Australian Government to reinforce public awareness measures, despite there being no confirmed cases of H5 bird flu in the state.
Premier Peter Malinauskas has convened a special meeting of the state’s Emergency Management Cabinet Committee to receive an update on preparedness and response arrangements, as governments across the country monitor the situation closely.
The H5 strain has spread widely across parts of the world in recent years, affecting wild bird populations and, in some regions, commercial poultry operations. Australian authorities have long anticipated the possibility of its arrival due to migratory bird movements and have spent recent years strengthening biosecurity measures.
South Australia says it has invested $6.8 million since 2022 to bolster emergency animal disease preparedness. The funding has supported surveillance programs, diagnostic capacity, workforce training and response planning. Authorities have also conducted simulation exercises and invested in specialist equipment, including mobile diagnostic laboratories and decontamination units designed for rapid deployment during disease outbreaks.
Environmental preparedness has also formed part of the state’s planning. The government has worked with the Commonwealth to support vulnerable wildlife species and habitats, including Australian sea lions, while expanding coordination with industry groups, conservation organisations and government agencies.
Additional Commonwealth funding has been directed towards preparedness measures, including support for critical equipment and national response arrangements. Federal funding has also been provided to the Zoo and Aquarium Association to assist in protecting threatened native species at Cleland Wildlife Park, Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park.
Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Clare Scriven said the arrival of H5 bird flu in Australia had been anticipated due to its global spread.
She said South Australia had been preparing through workforce training and investment in specialised equipment, including a mobile biosecurity laboratory that could be deployed quickly if required.
Scriven said strong biosecurity practices remained the most effective way to protect the state’s poultry sector, which contributes an estimated $922 million to the economy.
Environment Minister Emily Bourke said work had been underway with federal agencies to improve the resilience of species considered most vulnerable to disease outbreaks. She said efforts such as invasive species control, weed management and revegetation projects were aimed at improving recovery prospects for threatened wildlife should an outbreak occur.
Authorities are encouraging members of the public to report sick or dead birds and wildlife displaying symptoms that may be associated with bird flu. Signs can include multiple birds becoming ill or dying in one location, weakness, difficulty standing or flying, unusual behaviour, swelling, discolouration and respiratory distress.
Residents are being advised not to touch sick or dead birds. Instead, they should record what they observe and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.
While officials stress there is currently no evidence of H5 bird flu in South Australia, they say early reporting and ongoing vigilance will be important as surveillance efforts continue across the country.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
