New South Wales Confirms First H5N1 Bird Flu Case in Australia

New South Wales became the third Australian state to confirm a case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza after a migratory seabird, a giant petrel, tested positive near the coastal town of Hawks Nest in the Hunter region. State Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said it is the first confirmed detection of H5 in NSW and noted there is no evidence of spread to local wildlife, commercial poultry, captive birds or other species, and no impact on the supply of chicken meat or eggs.

Australia now has six confirmed infections across three states – Western Australia, South Australia and New South Wales – with additional suspected cases prompting extra testing. Authorities have launched a response plan that includes heightened surveillance, additional staff support for the industry, and public advice to avoid handling sick or dead birds. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged the government will do all it can to prevent further spread of the virus.