Biosecurity measures on free-range poultry farms

Keep animals separate

• Keep different animals separate—don't keep poultry and other livestock or other species of poultry on the range together.
• Have facilities available to be able to lock birds indoors at night to protect them from inclement weather, predators and exposure to wild birds.

Reduce exposure to wild animals

• Make sure that vegetation (for example, planted trees for shade, vegetation buffers and shelter belts) minimise wild bird attraction. Alternatives to trees on the range are structures covered with shade cloth or shade sails.
• Keep grass on the range area short and don't let it seed, as long grass can attract wild birds and rodents.
• Regularly remove manure from outside hatch openings and clean the ramps from poultry housing to the range.

Minimise contamination from food and water

• Provide feed and water for birds indoors.
• Ensure the range drains well so water doesn't pool or puddle.
• Only use treated water for range irrigation.
• Minimise the amount of open water sources on the property and do not have any dams located within the range.

Mandatory housing orders or recommendations

When avian influenza is detected, an Australian or state government veterinary authority (government authority) may put mandatory housing orders in place or recommend voluntary housing for poultry.

Free range poultry egg and meat producers under a mandatory housing order must stop their flocks from accessing outdoor areas.