Backround: In an undated supplied image obtained on Thursday, June 18, 2026, supplied images of sub-Antarctic Australian territory Heard Island taken between October 2025 and May 2026 in Heard Island, Australia. Credit: PR IMAGE/Supplied by Australian Antarctic Division. Inset: A graphic illustration created on Monday, June 22, 2026 highlighting the key points to know about the detection of bird flu in WA, the first time the H5N1 strain has been detected on Australian shores. Credit: AAP Image/Susie Dodds
Australia has recorded its first mainland case of the H5 avian influenza (bird flu) strain after it was detected in a wild migratory seabird in Western Australia. While authorities say the risk to the public remains low, the discovery has raised concerns about its potential impact on wildlife. In this podcast, we look at what the detection means for Australia and the steps being taken to contain the virus.
Australia has recorded its first mainland case of the H5 avian influenza (bird flu) strain after it was detected in a wild migratory seabird in Western Australia. While authorities say the risk to the public remains low, the discovery has raised concerns about its potential impact on wildlife. In this podcast, we look at what the detection means for Australia and the steps being taken to contain the virus.
