Bird flu regulations extended
Victorian authorities have extended biosecurity regulations for poultry owners for another 28 days due to the ongoing spread of H5 bird flu among wild birds. Owners of 50 or more birds in southern regions are required to keep their poultry confined to prevent contact with wild birds and their droppings.
Why it matters
Strict biosecurity measures are essential to prevent the transmission of H5 bird flu from wild populations to domestic poultry, which protects both animal welfare and the agricultural industry.
AS H5 bird flu continues to spread among wild birds along much of Victoria’s coastline, the requirement for targeted biosecurity measures to be implemented in southern parts of the state has been extended for another 28 days from September 19, 2026.
Under the requirement, those who own or are in control of 50 or more poultry in southern local government areas, including metropolitan Melbourne, must continue to confine their birds in a manner to prevent contact with wild birds, their droppings and any environments accessed by wild birds.
Recent disease events have largely involved seabirds and shorebirds that generally remain close to the coast, meaning poultry in coastal and southern regions continue to be at heightened risk of exposure.
The best defence against the spread of H5 bird flu into poultry is strong biosecurity measures, including practices that restrict contact between poultry and wild birds.
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