The confirmation of H5N1 avian influenza in a Greater Crested Tern found near Robe on South Australia’s Limestone Coast marks a significant development for Australia’s biosecurity system.
It is now critically important that authorities establish the pathway that resulted in this Australian seabird becoming infected. Understanding how this transmission occurred will be essential to strengthening Australia’s surveillance and ensuring any emerging risks to wildlife and agricultural industries are identified as quickly as possible.
The Coalition thanks the veterinarians, biosecurity officers, wildlife experts and frontline personnel working to monitor, investigate and respond to this detection.
As the risk profile of this disease changes, it is more important than ever that anyone who sees a sick or dead bird reports it immediately. Prompt reporting gives authorities the best opportunity to investigate potential cases, understand how the virus may be behaving in the Australian environment and respond quickly to any emerging threats. Members of the public should avoid handling sick or dead birds and report them to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, or report sick or dead wild birds to their relevant state or territory agriculture department or environment agency.
While this detection is concerning, Australia’s response must continue to be guided by the best available scientific and veterinary advice. There is currently no evidence that H5N1 has entered Australia’s commercial poultry industry or broader agricultural production systems. Importantly, there is currently no evidence of mass mortality events in wild bird populations associated with this detection.
The Coalition supports the work underway to respond to this incident and will receive a briefing from officials in the coming days. We will continue to work constructively with the Government, industry and biosecurity agencies to support Australia’s world-class biosecurity system and ensure every possible measure is being taken to protect Australian agriculture.