VICTORIAN POULTRY HOUSING REQUIREMENTS EXTENDED

Poultry owners in southern and coastal parts of Victoria will be required to continue housing their birds for at least another 28 days, as H5 bird flu detections continue among wild birds.

The requirement applies to owners with 50 or more birds in affected coastal and southern shires, where authorities say poultry face the greatest risk of contact with infected wildlife.

Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Graeme Cooke, says most recent disease events have occurred along the coastline, although occasional activity has also been recorded inland.

Housing poultry is still recommended wherever possible in other areas, with producers urged to maintain strict biosecurity, review their plans and remain alert for signs of disease.

Authorities are also warning that the upcoming breeding season for wild birds could lead to more sick and dead wildlife, particularly around beaches, wetlands and waterways.

The housing requirement will continue to be reviewed according to disease activity and risk, while poultry owners are being urged to keep up to date with the latest Agriculture Victoria advice and report sick or dead birds.