Australian Coast on Alert as Antarctic Storms Could Bring H5N1‑Infected Birds

A cold front moving across the Southern Ocean is expected to push H5N1‑infected seabirds from Antarctic hotspots such as Heard Island toward the southwest coast of Western Australia. Two infected birds – a brown skua and a giant petrel – were found near Esperance last week, illustrating the pathway by which the virus can travel thousands of kilometres on migratory birds.

Experts warn that additional storm fronts could bring more albatrosses, petrels and other pelagic birds to Australian shores, raising the risk of a severe outbreak among native wildlife and the poultry industry. Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the government is still investigating the extent of the virus in Australian wildlife, and that the risk to human health remains low.

The Albanese government has allocated $113 million for biosecurity preparations, including teams to monitor and test migratory birds, plans to safely dispose of potentially infected animals, quarantine zones and strategies to protect vulnerable species. Conservation officials urged the public to remain vigilant and report any sick or dead birds along the coastline.