Joint media release: Funding boost for H5 bird flu preparedness across the NT

Senator The Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water
The Hon Julie Collins MP, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
The Hon Joshua Burgoyne MLA, NT Minister for Corporate and Digital Development

The Albanese Government is investing more than $500,000 to support the Northern Territory prepare native species for a potential H5 avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak.  

The funding will help enhance and improve the condition of critical habitat for species that are most at-risk from H5 bird flu, including the Territory’s iconic magpie goose.  

In Mary River National Park the funding will support aerial surveys of at-risk species and increase the efforts of Parks and Wildlife rangers in the removal of invasive pests such as feral pigs, buffalo and gamba grass.  

Additionally, Gurruwiling (Arafura Swamp) Rangers will tackle weeds of national significance, including olive hymenachne and mimosa, to improve the wetland habitats of the Gurruwiling.  

Healthy habitats and strong populations give native species the best chance of withstanding the potential impacts of H5 bird flu. Not only this, but these projects will have long lasting, broad conservation benefits.

This funding is part of the Albanese Government’s broader $100 million investment to prepare for H5 bird flu. This includes $35.9 million for environment measures, with the following investments already underway in the NT:

• $150,000 to support species and site preparedness planning.
• $9,700 to enhance biosecurity to protect captive populations of threatened species, such as the greater bilby, at Alice Springs Desert Park.

Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said that work to support habitats is an important part of preparing for H5 bird flu.  

“We can’t stop H5 bird flu from reaching Australia, but we can prepare by building sustainable and healthy populations of our native species.  

“That means tackling threats head on, which is why our Government is funding this critical work.”  

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said this support continues the Albanese Labor Government’s preparedness, surveillance and response activities.

“Strengthening biosecurity is critical for our agricultural industries, the environment and biodiversity which is why we are delivering more than $100 million for H5 bird flu preparedness.

“Our biosecurity system is world renowned, but it is a shared responsibility. That’s why we’re continuing close cooperation between governments, industry, communities and individuals.”

Northern Territory Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne said early detection is critical to minimising the impacts of H5 bird flu.

“The Northern Territory Government continues to invest in well-established monitoring programs for magpie geese and other waterfowl populations, ensuring we have the data and surveillance needed to respond effectively.

“We also work closely with Aboriginal Ranger groups, Parks and Wildlife, and other government agencies to identify risks and inform careful management of our native species and habitats.

“By working together with the Federal Government, we are strengthening the Territory’s preparedness and response to any potential outbreaks of avian influenza.”