The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) has confirmed that the City of Casey has recorded a case of H5 Bird Flu (H5N1). This case was confirmed in a greater crested tern in Clyde on Friday 7 August.
DEECA is leading the response, and Council will work closely with them to support local response efforts and keep our community informed.
While there is no need for alarm, we encourage residents to stay informed and remain aware of official advice. The risk to the general public remains low, and there is currently no indication that people need to change their day-to-day activities.
If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife
- Avoid contact.
- Record the exact location and what you observed.
- Report it by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or via the online form: https://forms.bio.vic.gov.au/wildlife-influenza-investigation
Please report clusters of 5 or more sick or dead wild birds of any species anywhere in Victoria, or any single sick or dead:
- Wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird or bird of prey.
- Marine mammal (such as a seal or dolphin).
Community reports help authorities assess risks, identify birds suitable for testing, and respond quickly to potential disease outbreaks.
To help you identify the species most at risk from H5N1 bird flu, visit https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/animal-diseases/poultry-diseases/H5N1-avian-influenza-H5-bird-flu/identify-wild-birds-in-victoria
To see wildlife cases reported in Victoria and where H5 bird flu has been detected, view the interactive map
When to report to Council
If the birds are on Council land, the advice from DEECA is to leave them to decompose. However, if the birds are located in an area that may affect community use, such as a sports round, playground or walking track, please report it to Council by calling 9705 5200 or through Snap Send Solve: https://www.casey.vic.gov.au/sss
Council will assess the situation and determine whether removal is required, in line with DEECA’s current advice.
If you see injured birds or wildlife
We know people care deeply about wildlife and want to help when they see an animal in distress. Please avoid contact and report the injured bird or wildlife to Wildlife Victoria on 8400 7300 or via the online form: https://wildlifevictoria.org.au/report-a-wildlife-emergency/
