Australia to begin vaccinating native birds against H5N1 Programme to focus on captive birds most at risk of extinction11 August 2026 11 August 2026 1 minute read 1 minute read By: By: Global Ag Media OceaniaAustralia will soon begin vaccinating its vulnerable native birds against the deadly H5N1 bird flu as the virus spreads more widely after first being detected in the country in June, Reuters reported, citing the government on Tuesday. "The priority species will be identified based on vulnerability to the H5 bird flu and the potential conservation impact," Collins said. The move follows neighbouring New Zealand's decision in July to begin a vaccination programme for 300 core breeding birds from five of its most endangered species. About 45% of Australia's roughly 850 bird species are endemic, government data shows, meaning they are unique to Australia and found nowhere else on Earth. Australia was the last continent to report bird flu, although the virus was detected in late 2025 on the sub-Antarctic territory of Heard Island.