In short:
Victoria has introduced temporary poultry housing requirements across metropolitan Melbourne and other higher-risk areas after 47 H5 bird flu detections in wild birds. Poultry owners with 50 or more birds must house them for an initial 14 days to reduce contact with wild birds.
Wyndham Advertiser
Precautionary Restrictions In Place
Victoria has introduced temporary poultry housing requirements across metropolitan Melbourne and other higher-risk areas following further detections of H5 bird flu in wild birds.
For an initial 14 days, poultry owners with 50 or more birds in metropolitan Melbourne, coastal areas and some neighbouring areas must house their birds to reduce contact with wild birds.
The move follows 47 confirmed H5 cases in wild birds across Victoria, with new detections recorded at Yambuk, Apollo Bay and Clyde, adding to known detections around Portland and Nelson.
The requirement is a precautionary measure aimed at reducing the risk of the virus spreading from wild birds to poultry.
Free-range egg farmers required to move their hens indoors can continue to label and sell their eggs as free range during the temporary housing period.
The state government says it is continuing to work with the agriculture industry as the H5 bird flu situation develops.
Poultry owners are being urged to review their biosecurity plans, watch for signs of disease and keep up to date with official advice.
Victorians are also being advised not to touch sick or dead birds or other wildlife. Sightings should instead be recorded and reported online or through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
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