Australia detects H5N1 bird flu in wild birds, prompting PNG trade ban and heightened surveillance

Australia confirmed its first cases of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in wild seabirds on its mainland in June 2026, with detections in a brown skua and a giant petrel in Western Australia and additional dead birds found on remote beaches in South Australia. Federal and state authorities, including Agriculture Minister Julie Collins and Environment Minister Murray Watt, have stepped up surveillance, testing, and bio‑security measures, deploying drones, expanding sampling zones and reviewing response plans. The government stresses that poultry farms remain uninfected and the risk to the public is low, while wildlife experts warn of severe threats to native bird species and marine mammals.

In response, Papua New Guinea’s National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority suspended imports of Australian chicken meat, eggs and related products, a move Australia has contested as unnecessary. The ban affects a market that accounts for about half of Australia’s poultry export volume. Australian officials are negotiating to lift the restriction.

The episode has spurred a $113 million federal preparedness investment, including $11 million in the latest budget, aimed at protecting wildlife and preventing a wider outbreak. Health agencies note no human cases have been recorded, but monitor poultry workers for potential exposure.