Australia has initiated a targeted vaccination campaign for both captive and wild birds following the detection of the H5 avian influenza strain. The country recorded its first case of the virus in June and has since confirmed more than 230 cases nationwide.
The immunization drive will begin across states and territories in the coming days and weeks, according to Australian Agriculture Minister Julie Collins. The initial focus will be on priority species held in captivity.
Strategy and limitations
Authorities will determine which species to vaccinate based on their vulnerability to the virus and the potential impact on conservation. Australian Environment Minister Murray Watt stated that widespread vaccination of wild birds was impractical because the vaccine requires two doses.
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer Beth Cookson cautioned that vaccination was not a standalone solution. The government has secured an initial 2 million Australian dollars ($1.3 million) worth of vaccines for the program.
Spread and regional status
The virus was detected in migratory species before spreading to local native birds last month. Australia recorded its first mass wildlife mortality event linked to the H5N1 virus last week. The influenza virus had previously been identified in late 2025 on the sub-Antarctic territory of Heard Island.
No H5N1 detections have been reported in poultry or the broader agricultural industry in Australia. Tasmania, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory are the only Australian jurisdictions without confirmed H5N1 cases.
Roughly 45 per cent of Australia's 850 bird species are endemic. In July, New Zealand decided to launch a vaccination programme for 300 key breeding birds belonging to five of its most endangered species.
