Protecting Your Poultry from Bird Flu (H5N1)

Practical Biosecurity Tips for Backyard Flocks*

Keeping your chickens and other poultry safe from bird flu starts with strong, everyday biosecurity.

While the current risk to backyard flocks in several states remains low (as of Aug 2026), simple preventative steps can dramatically reduce the chance of your birds coming into contact with infected wild birds, droppings, or contaminated water.

• Reduce Contact With Wild Birds Wild birds are the primary carriers of avian influenza, so limiting exposure is essential.
• Keep feed and water stations covered so wild birds can’t access them.
• Block access to dams, ponds, and natural water sources that wild birds use.
• Use netting, roofing, or fencing to stop wild birds from entering outdoor areas or contaminating surfaces.
• Clean up spilled feed, fallen fruit, and standing water, which attract wild birds to your property.
• If you prefer a more controlled environment, consider housing your flock in an enclosed chicken coop (solid roof) to further reduce exposure.

Maintain Clean, Safe Poultry Areas

Good hygiene helps prevent disease spread within your flock.

• Wear clean footwear and clothing when entering poultry areas.
• If you’ve been in places frequented by wild birds, disinfect boots and equipment before returning to your birds.
• Wash your hands before and after handling poultry.
• Avoid unnecessary contact with other people’s birds while monitoring continues.

Protect Water Sources

Contaminated water is a major transmission pathway for bird flu.

Safer water options include:

• Treated mains water (chlorinated)
• Bore water that has been tested and confirmed suitable for poultry

Avoid letting your birds drink from any source used by wild birds.

Monitor Your Birds for Signs of Illness Daily

Early detection is critical. Watch for sudden illness, unusual behaviour, or unexplained deaths. Report any concerning symptoms immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Temporary Poultry Housing Options

You’re not required to keep backyard poultry indoors, but during heightened risk periods, temporarily keeping birds in a covered or enclosed area can reduce contact with wild birds and contaminated water.

If indoor housing isn’t practical, consider reducing the time birds spend free‑ranging or limiting access to open areas.

Avian Disease Biosecurity for People and Equipment 

• Remove visible dirt from vehicles, tools, and boots.
• Wash with a neutral detergent, then apply a disinfectant such as 3% citric acid for at least 15 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• After possible exposure, wash skin with soap for 20 seconds and use alcohol‑based sanitiser.

*Tips provided by Greenhouse & Polytunnels as a guide, and are not legally binding as 100% preventative measures. Please see the government website for more 'official' guidelines.