Help protect SA from H5 bird flu

South Australians are advised to be aware after H5 bird flu was confirmed in a vagrant migratory seabird in Western Australia - marking the first time this strain has been detected in Australia.

Premier Peter Malinauskas has called for a special meeting of the state’s Emergency Management Cabinet Committee tomorrow for an update on the cross-agency response.

It’s important to note that there are no confirmed detections of H5 bird flu in South Australia and along with the Federal Government, the Malinauskas Government has undertaken significant preparedness activities over recent years to strengthen readiness.

This includes a coordinated, whole-of-government approach integrating animal, human and environmental health considerations, aligned with national emergency animal disease arrangements.

Preparedness efforts have included:

• A $6.8 million State Government investment since 2022 to strengthen emergency animal disease preparedness, supporting surveillance, diagnostics, workforce capability and response readiness
• Conducting training and simulation exercises
• Additional investment in specialised response capabilities, including mobile diagnostic laboratories, decontamination units and other fit-for-purpose equipment to enable rapid deployment and on-ground response
• Targeted environmental and wildlife preparedness activities, including co-investment with the Commonwealth to strengthen resilience of high-risk species and habitats, including Australian sea lions
• Strengthening coordination across government, industry and conservation partners

These investments complement additional Commonwealth funding provided to South Australia to further enhance preparedness and response capability, including support for critical equipment and national coordination arrangements.

In addition, the Zoo and Aquarium Association received Commonwealth funding to help safeguard threatened native species at Cleland Wildlife Park, Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park.

The community is encouraged to report any dead or sick birds or wildlife showing signs of bird flu. Possible signs of bird flu in birds include:

• multiple sick or dead birds in one location
• weakness, inability to stand or fly
• neurological signs or abnormal behaviour
• swelling or discolouration
• respiratory distress

If you see sick or dead birds or other wildlife, do not touch them. Avoid contact. Record what you see. Report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 from anywhere in Australia.

For more information visit bird flu. For information on bird flu preparedness in South Australia, visit avian-influenza.