Bird Flu In Victoria
H5N1 Avian Influenza - bird flu
While Victoria is currently free of H5N1 bird flu, we expect that to change in the coming days/weeks. A lot of discussion and preparation has taken place by many authorities to prepare Australia for this disease. DEECA has started rolling out webinars for rescuers and wildlife shelter operators, so we can keep informed any any changes as they happen.
For reputable resources on this topic go to:
The following information is directly from the Department of Agriculture:
Signs of H5 bird flu in birds
Other signs of H5 bird flu in birds are:
- lack of coordination, tremors, swimming in circles
- twisted neck or other unusual posture
- inability to stand or fly
- diarrhoea
- difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing
- swelling around the head, neck and eyes
- cloudiness or change in colour of the eyes.
Reporting suspected bird flu cases
If you find sick or dead wild birds or wildlife with signs of H5 bird flu:
- AVOID contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife and their environment
- RECORD what you see
- REPORT, to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action by using this form.
- or calling the Emergency Animal Disease hotline 1800 675 888 in line with the guidance below.
Report clusters (5 or more) of sick or dead wild birds of any species, anywhere in Victoria.
Report even one sick or dead:
- wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey (e.g. eagles, hawks)
- marine mammal (e.g. seal, sea lion, dolphin).
DEECA will assess each report and decide if testing is needed.
They have setup an interative map where you can view cases of reported bird flu. To date, none of those tested have returned positive results.
Click here for information for wildlife carers and shelter operators.
H5 bird flu is a notifiable disease. This means that legally you must tell the Dept of Agriculture if you know of or suspect the presence of H5 bird flu.
You can do this by immediately calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
We need everyone to be alert, not alarmed.
We need everyone to follow the authorities directions and instructions when dealing with suspected cases of bird flu, as the survival of entire colonies and species may depend on it.
This information is correct as at 4pm on 5th July 2026.