Australia remains the only continent yet to record an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza, but with the virus spreading rapidly across the globe, preparations are ramping up close to home — including right here in Adelaide.
This week, new federal funding was announced to strengthen biosecurity protections at Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park, helping safeguard some of Australia’s most vulnerable native species should H5 bird flu ever reach the mainland.
The investment includes $140,000 for Adelaide Zoo and a further $54,800 for Monarto Safari Park, targeting practical upgrades designed to reduce risk and improve readiness across both sites. While Australia has so far avoided widespread outbreaks seen overseas, recent detection of H5 in elephant seals on Heard Island has highlighted just how close the threat may be.
If the virus were to establish itself in Australia, experts warn it could have serious consequences not only for agriculture, but also for wildlife — particularly endangered species already under pressure from habitat loss and climate change.
The funding will support strengthened biosecurity infrastructure, improved veterinary equipment, enhanced wildlife triage facilities, and upgraded deterrence measures aimed at limiting contact between wild birds and captive animals. Together, these measures are designed to protect species such as the orange-bellied parrot, regent honeyeater, swift parrot, greater bilby, plains-wanderer and Tasmanian devil, many of which rely on captive conservation programs as a last line of defence.
The support forms part of a broader national effort, delivered through the Zoo and Aquarium Association in consultation with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, to ensure zoos and wildlife parks are equipped to respond quickly if needed.
Senator for South Australia Marielle Smith said the funding reflects a wider commitment to threatened species protection, noting, “The Albanese Government is investing $36.9 million to boost environmental measures and accelerate protective action for threatened species.”
She added, “I have long admired the work of Zoos SA, and the valuable contribution they make to South Australian families, communities and conservation. I am pleased this funding will strengthen their biosecurity efforts, helping Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park to continue the important work they do.”
Local MP Steve Georganas also emphasised the community impact of the upgrades, saying, “Adelaide Zoo is an important part of our local community, and these upgrades to veterinary equipment and wildlife triage facilities will strengthen its vital conservation work. I’m proud that our Government is investing right here in the Adelaide electorate.”
From an on-the-ground perspective, Zoos SA Senior Veterinarian Dr David McLelland said preparedness is key, explaining, “While avian influenza primarily affects birds, we know it can also have serious impacts on other species. These projects support precautionary measures to protect threatened species in our care and improve biosecurity preparedness.”
For South Australia’s two flagship wildlife institutions, the funding provides an extra layer of protection — ensuring that if the worst were to happen, the systems, staff and facilities are better prepared to respond.
