Australia has detected the H5N1 strain of avian influenza in wild seabirds in Western Australia and South Australia. In response, the government committed more than $113 million to strengthen preparedness.
The three-part investment includes $43.9 million for national response coordination and biosecurity, $47.1 million to protect threatened species, and $22.1 million to expand the National Medical Stockpile of pandemic flu vaccines and antivirals.
Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Beth Cookson said Australia has been preparing for this scenario for years and will react quickly to protect poultry and wildlife. Agriculture Minister Julie Collins emphasized that well‑established national response arrangements are in place.
According to the Australian Centre for Disease Control, the current risk to people remains low.