Overview
- Authorities confirmed multiple H5N1 detections in migratory seabirds on the mainland, with new positive tests reported across Western Australia and a separate case recorded in South Australia on Wednesday.
- Public reporting has surged, with dozens to nearly 200 calls about sick or dead birds, and multiple batches of samples have been sent to labs while ground and drone surveillance is expanded along remote coasts.
- Major poultry operators have imposed precautionary lockdowns on farms and processing sites, though officials say there is no evidence so far that commercial flocks or people have been infected.
- Scientists warn the virus has already caused mass deaths in sub‑Antarctic wildlife (including more than 13,000 elephant seal pups) and say undetected infections along remote stretches of the Great Australian Bight are likely, straining wildlife carers and response capacity.
- Trade and public‑health actions are under way, with at least one trading partner temporarily blocking poultry imports, the government urging reports to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline, and advice for pet owners and responders to avoid contact and use protective gear.