Current situation: H5 bird flu

H5 bird flu (high pathogenicity avian influenza) is a highly contagious viral infection of birds, including poultry.

Current detections in Australia

H5 bird flu has been confirmed in wild birds in some Australian states, including Queensland.

See the latest national information about detections and response activities across Australia.

Queensland has activated emergency arrangements and is undertaking surveillance to determine the extent of the infection in wildlife.

Voluntary housing requirements

The voluntary housing recommendation for Queensland free-range commercial poultry was in place from 5 July 2026 and ceased on 26 September 2026.

Voluntary housing has not be extended because:

• no H5 bird flu detections have been reported in Queensland since 25 August 2026
• there is no evidence that H5 bird flu has become established in Queensland wild bird populations.

Commercial poultry producers should continue enhanced biosecurity measures, particularly to keep wild birds away from poultry, feed, water and free-range production areas.

Prepare and protect your birds

• Advice for poultry farmers
• Keep your poultry healthy and safe
• Manage biosecurity risks on poultry farms

Report suspect cases

H5 bird flu is a nationally notifiable animal disease.

Anyone who suspects an animal might be infected with H5 bird flu has a legal responsibility to report it immediately.

Test suspect cases

Veterinarians can submit samples to the Biosecurity Sciences Laboratory from birds showing clinical signs of avian influenza virus infection.