Arabic version: فيكتوريا ترفع إغلاق الدواجن رغم إنفلونزا الطيور بين الحياة البرية

According to ABC News, Victoria is lifting its poultry housing order in southern and coastal areas despite H5N1 bird flu continuing to spread among wildlife. The restrictions had required flocks of 50 or more birds in metropolitan Melbourne and southern parts of the state to remain indoors or confined since early August.

H5N1 has not been detected in poultry or livestock in Australia. Agriculture Victoria said animal welfare considerations and forecasts of hotter-than-average summer temperatures informed its decision to end the order, which concludes 10 weeks of lockdown for poultry farmers in Victoria’s south.

Chief veterinary officer Graeme Cooke said producers should continue protecting flocks from wildlife. “Reducing contact between poultry and wild birds remains one of the most effective ways to lower the risk of disease,” he said, urging owners to take practical steps to keep birds separated wherever possible.

There have been 234 confirmed H5N1 events in wildlife in Victoria. Victorian Farmers Federation president Ryan Milgate said strong biosecurity practices remained the best defence against disease outbreaks and called on producers to remain alert for sick or diseased birds.

Authorities will continue monitoring the risk and can introduce further controls if circumstances change. Victorians have been advised to avoid contact with unwell or dead wildlife and can report concerns through the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888 or the Agriculture Victoria website.