New South Wales Confirms First H5 Bird Flu Detection

New South Wales has confirmed its first case of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza after the virus was detected in a giant petrel found near Hawks Nest.

Authorities say the detection remains limited to a single migratory seabird, with no evidence of spread to commercial poultry flocks, captive birds or local wildlife.

The NSW Government has activated its H5 Bird Flu Response Plan, increasing surveillance, deploying additional staff and advising poultry producers to strengthen biosecurity measures, including voluntarily housing free-range birds where practical.

Officials say there is no impact on the supply of chicken meat or eggs, while the risk to human health remains low.

Authorities are advising members of the public not to handle sick or dead wild birds and to report any unusual cases to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.