High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI)
General Information
High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (also known as H5 bird flu) is affecting birds and mammals, both wild and domestic, across the world. On the 19th of June 2026, Australia had its first detection of H5N1bird flu on the coast of southern Western Australia.
Australia has been working on preparedness for some time and has been able to respond quickly to this H5 bird flu incursion to help protect wildlife and communities.
This H5N1 bird flu strain is NOT currently in New Zealand but may enter through migratory and non-migratory wild bird movements.
If you see a single or group of sick or dead wildlife, you should:
- Avoid contact and keep your distance.
- Record the date, time, location and take photos.
- Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
ZAA member zoos and aquariums have been preparing for the virus' introduction into the Australasian region, working with government bodies, veterinarians and other experts on biosecurity plans for zoos, aquariums and wildlife hospitals. This has included Federal Government funding to support upscale of biosecurity measures to help support protected species vulnerable to the disease..
What is Avian Influenza?
Avian influenza (AI), also known as bird flu, is a viral disease caused by the influenza A virus. There are many different strains of AI, which are categorised as either low pathogenicity (LPAI) or high pathogenicity (HPAI) depending on the potential severity of disease caused in poultry.
LPAI naturally occurs in wild birds in Australia and New Zealand, notably waterbirds (ducks, geese and swans) and shorebirds, and typically do not cause severe disease.
A wide range of bird species can be infected with HPAI, including waterbirds, poultry and migratory birds. A wide range of mammals can also be affected, particularly marine mammals and species that predate or scavenge on bird carcasses. Although avian influenza viruses do not normally infect humans, some subtypes have been associated with disease in humans ranging from mild illness to severe disease.
Why is this a concern?
Since 2021, a new strain of HPAI has caused significant illness and deaths in poultry, wild birds and wild mammals in all geographic regions except Oceania. The detection of this strain in Australia does pose some risks to both wild and domestic birds and mammals in Australia. New Zealand is still free of HPAI.
The emergence of this strain is associated with a significant increase in the frequency and geographic range of HPAI outbreaks in both wild birds and poultry overseas. Mortalities have been observed in a wide range of bird and mammal species, seen as individual animal deaths and mass mortalities.
Are Australia and New Zealand at risk?
The first case of HPAI H5N1 has been detected in Australia as of the June 2026. Australia is well prepared to respond to H5 bird flu and has well-established national response arrangements in place to respond to animal disease incidents.
WA as the lead jurisdiction, will coordinate response activity with national coordination led by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. This will include enhanced general surveillance undertaken on a regional basis and with targeted extension and engagement with the poultry industry, veterinarians and wildlife carers.
HPAI has still NOT been detected in New Zealand in any species. The emergence of the strain in Australia poses an increased risk to New Zealand, due to the likelihood of entry via wild bird movements, and increased consequences if it were to enter. ZAA continues to support NZ members with response planning.