I’d like to start by acknowledging the evolving situation of highly pathogenic Avian influenza (HPAI) in Victoria and now NSW. The frontline workers in these responses are doing an excellent job, and we are very grateful for their efforts.
There are currently seven infected properties in Victoria and one in NSW in the Greater Sydney Basin region – it is important to note that the NSW and Victorian outbreaks are not connected. They are separate spillover events from wild birds. It is also very important to note that Australia does not have the H5N1 the strain currently causing major issues across the globe.
Animal Health Australia (AHA) continues to work with our affected members to support them during this response.
I encourage all our members to continue to monitor the AgVic and NSW DPI websites to access the latest information and updates:
- Avian influenza | Poultry diseases | Animal diseases | Biosecurity | Agriculture Victoria
- Avian influenza (nsw.gov.au)
As approach the end of another financial year, we have also just released our 2024/25 Annual Operating Plan (AOP), with our members s endorsing the funding of our subscription programs at this week’s General Meeting this week.
Our AOP is the roadmap for the year ahead and has been developed in consultation with our members, based on agreed workplans for the individual programs.
Our 2024/25 AOP is about AHA looking forward with our members and making sure our company remains agile to support delivery of transformative animal health and biosecurity systems into the future.
A key priority includes supporting member emergency animal disease (EAD) preparedness, response and recovery capabilities which is more pertinent than ever with the current responses in Victoria and NSW. We are also looking at modernising our National Animal Health Database, implementing recommendations from the EADRA 5-year review and will be delivering the 3rd Australia Biosecurity Symposium, among several priority areas listed.
To understand more about activities, projects and programs being undertaken you can download the full 2024/25 AOP via the link – https://animalhealthaustralia.com.au/AOP24-25
Thanks,
Dr Samantha Allan
Acting CEO | AHA