Suspected Bird Flu Case Detected in Wild Bird in Western Australia

A migratory wild bird in southern Western Australia has tested suspected positive for avian influenza. Confirmatory tests are underway, with results expected tomorrow.

Capital Post 19/06/2026 14:43

Suspected Bird Flu Case Detected in Wild Bird in Western Australia — Suspected Bird Flu Found in Wild Bird in WA

The Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins, has addressed the media in Hobart regarding a suspected case of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu. If confirmed, this would mark the first detection of the deadly H5 strain in mainland Australia.

Details of the Suspected Case

According to Minister Collins, the suspected case was identified in a single migratory wild bird found sick in an isolated area of southern Western Australia. Initial testing conducted at the Western Australian Laboratory has returned a suspected positive result for avian influenza. Samples have been sent to CSIRO's Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness for confirmatory testing, with results anticipated by tomorrow.

Minister Collins stated, "We cannot confirm yet whether it is the strain of concern that is circulating at this stage known as the H5 bird flu." She emphasized that there is currently no evidence of mass mortality or infection in poultry.

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Next Steps

Authorities are awaiting confirmatory test results to determine the specific strain and assess any potential risks. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.