July 6, 2026
 

H5N1 detected in New South Wales as Australia's confirmed cases reach six

No spread to commercial or backyard poultry has been recorded, but authorities have intensified surveillance across wildlife and livestock.

Australia has confirmed a sixth case of the H5N1 strain of avian influenza following the detection of an infected migratory seabird near Hawks Nest in New South Wales, making it the third Australian state to record infections.

The New South Wales Minister for Agriculture said there was no evidence the virus had spread among native wildlife, and that no H5 avian influenza had been detected in commercial poultry flocks, backyard birds or any other birds in the state.

Australian authorities have intensified surveillance and testing of wildlife and livestock since avian influenza was first confirmed on the Australian mainland. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged that the government will do everything possible to limit any further spread.

- WAM