The NSW Government today announced the easing of emergency zones in the Hawkesbury and around the ACT, as biosecurity clean up actions to eradicate high pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H7N8 strain enter the final phase.
From Thursday 29 August 2024 the emergency zone significantly reduced in size with many properties which were in the emergency zone no longer needing permits for moving birds, poultry products, feed and equipment.
Emergency zones have been made smaller around the two chicken and egg farm sites, and four backyard chicken sites that were near those farms, as biosecurity specialists complete their decontamination activities.
In addition, the NSW emergency order to manage the avian influenza detection in the ACT has also been revoked.
The Government's avian influenza response and eradication actions in the Hawkesbury included:
- 4,016 samples tested
- 76,000 text messages to property owners
- 1,500 targeted surveillance letters sent to backyard bird owners
- 500-plus property surveillance contacts
- 300-plus Emergency Animal Disease phone calls received
- 15 community events with educational support for schools, pet shops and local veterinarians, pop-up stalls and webinars
The NSW Government's ongoing commitment to biosecurity and primary industries, will see work continue closely with stakeholders to monitor the situation and help prevent any future outbreaks.
With the easing of emergency zones, poultry farmers and pet bird owners are encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to recommended biosecurity practices.
If you notice any unusual symptoms in your birds, please contact a veterinarian or call the Emergency Animal Disease hotline, 1800 675 888.
Information is available online at: Avian Influenza information.
NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty said:
"Thanks must go to the community and poultry industry for assisting our Government in getting this outbreak under control so swiftly.
"Their exceptional efforts and vigilance in reporting, adhering to biosecurity measures and cooperating with the biosecurity emergency orders has allowed these zone changes.
"This collective effort has been crucial in protecting the health and safety of our poultry and egg industries."
NSW Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Jo Coombe said:
"The collaborative efforts between organisations, including the poultry industry, local councils and government agencies, were crucial in preventing further spread and supporting those affected.
"The swift response and proactive measures of all involved has stopped the virus spreading any further and shows how biosecurity is everyone's responsibility."
