Australia declares triumph over avian flu

Australia has successfully eradicated the bird flu strain that caused egg shortages and disrupted supply chains nationwide.

Following outbreaks in Victoria, New South Wales, and the ACT, hundreds of thousands of birds were culled to control the virus.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins confirmed that the national emergency response effectively eliminated the H7 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), leading to Australia declaring itself free from the disease to the World Organisation for Animal Health.

The government has committed over $1 billion to strengthen Australia’s biosecurity system over the next four years, marking the first time Australia will have long-term, sustainable funding to protect agriculture, the environment, and public health.

Global Bird Flu Threat Remains

Despite Australia’s success in eliminating recent outbreaks, a global threat persists as a bird flu strain spreads through migratory birds.

While H5 HPAI has not been detected in Australia, authorities are maintaining caution.

“The rapid spread of H5 bird flu, which has had devastating effects on birds and mammals worldwide, necessitates that we remain vigilant,” said Collins.

Health experts, like Frank Wong, from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), have stated that the possibility of H5N1 reaching Australia is low, given migratory ducks and geese predominantly carry bird flu viruses over long distances, and Australia is not within their typical flight paths.

However, Wong noted, “The risk has slightly risen due to H5N1’s expanded ability to infect more wild bird species, increasing the possibility of introduction through regional or bridging species.”

Significant Funding Increase for Bird Flu Preparedness

In response, the Albanese government has announced a $100 million investment to bolster surveillance, readiness, and response capabilities.

On October 14, 2024, an additional $95 million was committed, supplementing the $6.9 million announced in July.

Of this total, $37 million will be allocated over two years to improve national coordination, enhance biosecurity capacity, and strengthen surveillance.

Another $35.9 million will be used to enhance H5 bird flu preparedness through advanced data analysis to safeguard at-risk species and fragile ecosystems.

An additional $22.1 million will be dedicated to manufacturing and storing pandemic influenza vaccines, ensuring a swift response to a potential outbreak in Australia.