Bird Flu detected in Victoria

Published on 31 July 2026

The State Government has confirmed the presence of the H5 bird flu in a wild bird in Victoria's west. There is now one positive case and one suspect case in Victoria.

We understand this may be distressing and we need to take every step we can to help care for our environment and wild birds.

The advice is to “Avoid, Record, Report” sick, injured or dead birds.

• Avoid: Do not touch sick or dead animals or their environment.
• Record: Note the location, species, and number of affected animals.
• Report: Contact DEECA via their online form or call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
  
  

• Clusters: Five or more sick or dead wild birds of any species.
• Single Animals: Any individual dead or sick seabird, waterbird, shorebird, bird of prey, or marine mammal (e.g., seals, dolphins).
• Concerns: Any unusual wildlife illness or sudden deaths.
  
  Pet owners should strictly prevent dogs and cats from contacting or eating wild birds.
  
  For the latest updates and more information please visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/birdflu