If you notice sick or dead birds or other animals, you should not touch them. If there are multiple dead birds or other animals, take photos or a video.
Record your location and report it to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
You will be directed to your state and territory government.
Commercial poultry producers and workers must use effective on-farm biosecurity and hygiene measures. This will protect their birds and themselves from disease.
What you need to know
Infectious diseases like bird flu can spread directly to poultry from wild birds. It can also spread via contaminated clothing, footwear, equipment or vehicles. Bird flu can spread between birds. It can also spread via contaminated poultry products, feed, equipment or other items. The virus can survive for long periods in droppings, respiratory secretions, water, feathers, eggs and meat.
Know the signs of bird flu
Signs of bird flu usually appear in several or all birds in a flock, including:
- sudden death
- lethargy or reluctance to walk, eat or drink
- droopy appearance or ruffled feathers
- head or limb swelling
- bruising of the wattle, comb, feet or skin
- respiratory signs such as panting, nasal discharge or sneezing
- diarrhoea
- unusual head or neck posture, incoordination, inability to walk or stand
- unusual reduction in egg production.
Report sick or dead birds.
Bird flu is a notifiable animal disease. You must immediately report it if you think one or more of your birds are infected. If you spot sick or dead birds keep your distance.
Call your local vet or the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
If bird flu is found
If H5 bird flu is detected in Australia, state and territory governments will provide information specific to your farm.
Visit outbreak.gov.au for information on current responses to pests and diseases in Australia.
Prepare your biosecurity plan
Experience from overseas shows that strong biosecurity is the most effective way to prevent the spread of bird flu.
Everyday actions outlined in your biosecurity plan will reduce the risk of diseases entering a farm. This is the most important step you can take to protect your birds and your business. Actions outlined in the plan will reduce the risk of bird flu and other diseases coming onto your farm.
See our online resource links below to help you create a biosecurity plan.
Resources
Find out more on how to manage the biosecurity risks for commercial poultry.
Biosecurity manuals
- National Farm Biosecurity Manual - Poultry Production
- National Water Biosecurity Manual - Poultry Production
- Chickens – Farm Biosecurity
Industry resources
- Egg Farmers of Australia
- Australian Chicken Meat Federation
- Australian Chicken Growers Council
- Planning and environment guideline for establishing meat chicken farms
- Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry