How to prepare for H5 bird flu
Bird flu (H5 avian influenza) has been detected in mainland Australia in wild, migratory seabirds. As of early July 2026, there are five confirmed cases: four in remote Western Australia and one in South Australia. Tasmanian businesses are encouraged to take a proactive approach and be prepared for the possible arrival of bird flu in the state.
H5 bird flu is a highly contagious disease that can affect wild birds, then be passed to poultry and other animals. There has been no detection of H5 bird flu in Tasmania, however now is the time to review your risks and put a plan in place. Business continuity planning is important for every business — not just those working directly with birds. While poultry farms and bird handlers are on the front lines, the ripple effects could extend to wildlife carers, tourism operators, food retailers, cafes and hospitality venues that rely on these animal products.
Preparation doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by identifying how an outbreak could impact your operations, supply chains or customers, and make sure you have a business continuity plan in place. Being prepared can help reduce disruption and ensure you can respond quickly if the situation changes.
What you can do now
All businesses are encouraged to:
- review or develop a business continuity plan
- consider potential impacts on suppliers, staff and operations
- stay informed through official government channels
- follow biosecurity advice relevant to your industry.
Support to help you get prepared
Bird flu information
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) provides up‑to‑date information on bird flu:
Bird flu (Avian Influenza) – NRE Tas
A dedicated resource is also available for businesses:
Tasmanian Bird Flu Preparedness Information Sheet for Small Business
Free business continuity planning advice and support
Preparing your business now can help minimise disruption and support a faster recovery.
You can use our Emergency Ready Business online tool to develop a tailored action plan based on your business risk and specific needs: www.emergencyready.business.tas.gov.au
Business Tasmania provides guidance on continuity planning
Assistance for small businesses to create a business continuity plan, or for advice to review an existing plan, is available through the Tasmanian Government’s New Business Support Service and Tasmanian Business Advice Service
Learn more
Watch our recorded workshops for practical guidance:
Preparing your business for bird flu and unexpected events
Emergency Ready: Preparing your business for bird flu and unexpected events
Stay informed
Businesses are encouraged to stay up to date with the latest advice and ensure plans are in place should conditions change.
For further support, contact the Business Tasmania team on 1800 440 026 or email ask@business.tas.gov.au