Report suspected bird flu

Why report

It is important to report any dead or sick animals showing signs of bird flu so that we can detect the virus early.

Reporting early:

• helps us detect H5 bird flu early
• supports a quick response
• builds on our understanding of the disease.

This includes:

• poultry and pet birds including backyard poultry (like chickens, ducks and aviary birds)
• wild birds and other animals
• feral animals like chickens, cats or rats
• marine mammals like seals and sea lions.

When to report

If you spot multiple sick or dead birds or other animals, you should report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 as soon as possible.

Record what you see (but don't touch them or let your pets get too close) and include:

• date and time
• location (GPS pin, nearby roads, or landmarks)
• type or description of birds or animals
• how many birds or other animals are sick or dead
• what they look like (e.g. freshly dead or just bones, signs of disease)
• if safe, take photos or ideally a video.

What happens after you make a report

When you report multiple sick or dead birds or other animals, the details you share are reviewed. This may lead to further investigation such as:

• a site visit
• sample collection for bird flu testing.

Other ways to report suspected bird flu

You can also report suspected bird flu directly to your state and territory

• New South Wales - Report sick or dead wild birds
• Victoria – Report sick or dead wild birds and wildlife
• Queensland - Report a biosecurity pest or disease or call Biosecurity Queensland on 132 523
• South Australia - Reporting animal disease - PIRSA
• Western Australia - Avian influenza: Signs and how to report
• Tasmania - Report Sick or Dead Birds
• Northern Territory - Report a wild bird disease (wild birds only)
• Australian Capital Territory – Contact ACT biosecurity

Norfolk Island, Christmas Island and Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Call the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

• For Norfolk Island – choose Option 2 for your location when prompted.
• For Christmas and Cocos (Keeling) Islands – choose Option 5 for your location when prompted.