Australia free from bird flu in poultry

The Victorian emergency response to an outbreak of H7 high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) in poultry has been successful, with eradication officially declared on 13 June 2025.

The Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry said there have been no new cases of H7 HPAI since 24 February, and Australia confirmed freedom from high pathogenicity avian influenza in poultry in accordance with the World Organisation for Animal Health standards on 24 June 2025.

The self-declaration of freedom has now been published by the World Organisation for Animal Health, providing global transparency for Australia’s animal health status and the effectiveness of the country’s biosecurity and response arrangements.

Australia has successfully contained and eradicated H7 HPAI in poultry several times in the last 50 years, including the outbreaks in 2024 in Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Beth Cookson said Australia’s national emergency animal disease response arrangements continue to work to keep our country safe.

“Agriculture Victoria have successfully implemented disease response activities to eradicate H7 HPAI in poultry on the affected farms and completed proof of freedom surveillance,” Cookson said.

“Their efforts, with support from government, industry, business and communities, shows why working together is so important — because Australia’s biosecurity is a shared responsibility.

“Ongoing surveillance is key to keeping Australia safe. We must remain vigilant and continue to follow good biosecurity practices.”

To find out more, visit www.birdflu.gov.au.

Image credit: iStock.com/Alina Rosanova