The Northern Territory (NT) is making preparations following the confirmation of H5 bird flu in Western Australia and South Australia.
CSIRO's Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness has confirmed that a brown skua and two giant petrels from WA and a giant petrel from SA have tested positive for H5 bird flu.
This is the first time the globally circulating H5 bird flu strain has been detected in Australia.
Australia is well prepared to respond to H5 bird flu, with well-established national arrangements in place to manage animal disease incidents.
H5 bird flu is a deadly threat to wildlife and could significantly impact Australia's poultry sector.
Northern Territory Chief Veterinary Officer, Sue Fitzpatrick said the Northern Territory is well prepared, with strong surveillance already in place.
"We undertake surveillance as part of a national program, with monitoring occurring across the Territory," she said.
"In the NT, impacts are expected to be focused on wildlife as well as backyard chickens and specialised show bird varieties, as there is no commercial poultry industry."
There is a low risk to human health, as bird flu rarely affects people. H5 bird flu is not a food safety risk for chicken meat and eggs if they are handled and cooked correctly.
NT Health Chief Health Officer, Dr Paul Burgess said that people should report sick birds and their location to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888, and be careful not to touch them.
"It is also an important reminder for people to ensure that they are up to date with their annual influenza vaccine for 2026," he said.
While the seasonal flu vaccine won't protect against bird flu, it does minimise the risk that people become unwell with both seasonal and bird flu viruses at the same time.
Pet owners are advised to keep animals away from wildlife, including preventing cats from roaming and keeping dogs on leads in wildlife areas.
When going to and from national parks, reserves or farms, clean your footwear, clothing and vehicle to help prevent spreading diseases between places.
People who own, care for, or work with birds or chickens should:
prevent wild birds from mixing with their birds and accessing their feed and waterkeep pens, aviaries, feeders and equipment cleanwash hands thoroughly with soap before and after handling birdsmonitor birds for signs of disease or sudden deaths.
The NT will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with national partners to protect wildlife, animal health and the community.
