Story perspectives

Australia Allocates $113 M Amid First H5N1 Bird Case

6/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Australia allocated $113 million to prepare for a possible H5N1 bird-flu incursion.
A brown skua on Cape Le Grand Beach in Western Australia tested positive for avian influenza, with H5N1 confirmation expected Saturday.
State Agriculture Minister Jackie Jarvis urged people to avoid handling sick wildlife, record locations and call hotline 1800 675 888.
Wildlife veterinarian Wayne Boardman warned that a confirmed H5N1 case could threaten endangered shorebirds, coastal raptors and Australian sea lions.

1 of 1

Story summary

Australia allocated $113 million to prepare for a possible H5N1 bird-flu incursion.
A brown skua on Cape Le Grand Beach in Western Australia tested positive for avian influenza, with H5N1 confirmation expected Saturday.
State Agriculture Minister Jackie Jarvis urged people to avoid handling sick wildlife, record locations and call hotline 1800 675 888.
Wildlife veterinarian Wayne Boardman warned that a confirmed H5N1 case could threaten endangered shorebirds, coastal raptors and Australian sea lions.