The Australian government has released an independent study on the risks that H5 bird flu could pose to Australia’s dairy industry as part of ongoing preparedness work.
The study, commissioned with Dairy Australia, found that H5 bird flu would present a low risk to the dairy industry if it became established in wild birds across the country.
The research included epidemiological modelling and on-farm assessments for the Australian dairy sector.
Rapid risk assessments for other livestock species, carried out as part of the same project, found the risk to be negligible for beef cattle, sheep and goats, and low for pigs if H5 bird flu were to become established in wild birds.
While the findings offer reassurance for agriculture, the government said it remains focused on preparing for any potential outbreak.
The study was funded through the government’s $100 million investment aimed at strengthening bird flu preparedness and national response capability.
“Having spent time on-farm with dairy farmers throughout the year, I know there has been concern about the potential impacts of H5 bird flu on their industry, following significant outbreaks in US dairy cattle early last year,” said minister for agriculture, fisheries and forestry, Julie Collins.
“Australia remains the only continent free from this highly pathogenic strain of H5 bird flu, but ensuring we’re prepared for a potential outbreak is critical.
“That’s why our government is investing over $100 million towards H5 bird flu preparedness and response capability, with this research part of our work to be better prepared and to respond effectively.
“Our government will continue strengthening surveillance, preparedness and response capability to mitigate the impacts of a potential H5 bird flu outbreak.”