Victoria increases funding for wildlife services after bird flu detected
The Victorian Government has announced a $500,000 funding package to support wildlife volunteers and organizations following the detection of H5 bird flu. The funds will provide personal protective equipment and emergency response support to ensure the safety of those handling native wildlife.
Why it matters
This proactive measure aims to contain the spread of avian influenza while protecting the health of frontline workers and the state's biodiversity.
The spread of bird flu is being closely monitored by the Victorian Government. Photo: Angela Sikiric.
The Victorian Labor Government is moving to support wildlife volunteers and organisations following the detection of H5 bird flu in the state.
Environment Minister Jaclyn Symes announced a $500,000 funding package for the sector, with half the money to go to frontline wildlife rescuers and shelters and the other half to Wildlife Victoria.
The funding will help wildlife rescuers and carers buy personal protective equipment (PPE) and other critical supplies required to meet biosecurity standards.
In addition, the equipment will help them perform their valuable jobs safely.
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Wildlife Victoria is set to use the money to boost its emergency response service, provide bird flu advice to wildlife rehabilitators, and support sampling and testing.
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