Published on 19 August 2026
Darebin City Council is monitoring reports of the H5 strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu) following recent detections in Victoria.
As H5 bird flu spreads globally and is now confirmed in Australia, early reporting of sick or dead wild birds and wildlife is extremely important.
While the risk to human health remains low, we recognise that potential impacts on local wildlife and community wellbeing can be concerning. Please remember to look after yourselves and each other and seek support if needed.
To help limit the impact of the H5 bird flu virus, official advice from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and Agriculture Victoria (AgVic) is to Avoid, Record, and Report:
Avoid all contact with sick or dead wild birds or wildlife and their environment.
Do not touch them, maintain a safe distance, and keep pets away from the area.
Take note of key details, including:
The exact location of the bird or wildlife.
The species (if known).
The number of animals that are sick or dead.
Any signs of illness or unusual behaviour observed.
Residents should report sick or dead birds and wildlife directly to AgVic using the AgVic Online Reporting Form or by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Clusters of 5 or more sick or dead wild birds of any species anywhere in Victoria.
Even 1 sick or dead wild seabird, waterbird, shorebird, or bird of prey.
Even 1 sick or dead marine mammal (such as a seal, sea lion, or dolphin).
Any other unusual wildlife observations of concern.
After receiving a report, AgVic and DEECA will assess the information, determine whether testing is required, and coordinate any necessary responses with land managers.
If you find dead birds or wildlife on your private land, there is currently a control area order (wildlife) in place for dead wildlife sampling, handling and disposal on private land statewide.
The requirement has been introduced to support the safe and consistent handling and disposal of dead wildlife on private land due to the presence of H5 bird flu. It is in place for 28 days until 29 September 2026, or until revoked.
This order authorises land owners or managers to move and dispose of wildlife that have died from H5 bird flu on private land.
For more information, please visit Managing dead birds and wildlife on your land.
A copy of the order may be obtained by calling the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action on 136 186 or online from the Victorian Government Gazette.
Please note that Darebin City Council is not responsible for managing the state bird flu response and cannot take reports on behalf of Agriculture Victoria. All sightings must be submitted directly via the Hotline on 1800 675 888 or the AgVic online form.
Dead birds in Council parks or reserves: If dead birds are reported on Council property, the matter will be passed to our team for routine collection.
Safety protocols: Before removing any bird, Council teams will contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline to confirm Agriculture Victoria has been notified and that safe removal can proceed.
Agriculture Victoria – Information about bird flu in Victoria Victorian Department of Health – Avian influenza DEECA – H5 bird flu Australian Government information about bird flu Wildlife Health Australia – Avian influenza
AUSVETPLAN – Avian influenza response strategy