Australian authorities have intensified surveillance and testing measures following the confirmation of two cases of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu, while neighbouring Papua New Guinea has taken the precautionary step of suspending all poultry imports from Australia.
Testing is currently underway in South Australia after three dead birds, including sub-Antarctic seabirds and a pelican, were discovered near Fowlers Bay on Monday. The location is more than 1,200 kilometres from Esperance in Western Australia, where the initial confirmed cases were detected, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
South Australia’s Primary Industries Minister Claire Scriven said it may take several days before laboratory results from the bird samples are completed. She noted that the situation remains under close observation as authorities continue monitoring possible spread patterns.
A spokesperson from the South Australia Primary Industries Department confirmed that there are no positive cases recorded in the state at present. However, the department has increased surveillance efforts and is actively investigating reports of sick or dead birds.
In addition, ground-based monitoring and drone surveillance operations have been deployed at sea lion breeding sites along South Australia’s western and far western coastline. Testing frequency has also been stepped up in areas assessed as high-risk.
Authorities in Western Australia are also examining additional bird samples collected from regions distant from the original outbreak sites. Officials said there is currently no evidence suggesting widespread transmission, despite dozens of reports of deceased or unwell birds being investigated.
Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea has imposed a ban on poultry meat and related imports from Australia. The decision comes despite assurances that Australia’s poultry industry remains free of bird flu infections, according to its Department of Agriculture.
Officials said they are engaging with Papua New Guinea to address concerns and resolve the issue, noting that the poultry sector continues to operate under strict biosecurity controls.
Although Australia had previously been the only continent without confirmed mainland cases, the virus was detected in late 2025 on Heard Island, a sub-Antarctic territory. Human infections remain rare, but global outbreaks have significantly affected poultry production, supply chains, and pricing in multiple countries.
