New safety alert highlights avian influenza risks for offshore activities

NOPSEMA has published a new environment and safety alert on avian influenza (H5N1), following Australia's first confirmed detections of the virus in June 2026. The alert highlights the potential for offshore facilities and vessels to interact with migratory seabirds that may carry the virus.

The alert reminds duty holders to assess whether avian influenza presents a credible risk to their activities and to ensure appropriate environmental, biosecurity and occupational health controls are in place. It also outlines measures to help reduce potential exposure to workers and minimise impacts on wildlife and the environment.

Duty holders are encouraged to remain vigilant, report sick or dead wildlife, and review relevant management arrangements and procedures.

Read the full alert here.