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A virulent strain of bird flu, known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1), is spreading across the globe, and Australia, along with New Zealand and Pacific nations, remain the only territories free from this infection. However, experts predict it is only a matter of time before the deadly virus reaches Australia’s shores.
As of December last year, H5N1 had claimed the lives of over 300 million birds worldwide, devastating both poultry and wild bird populations. While the disease primarily affects birds, it is also known to infect mammals, including humans, with over 900 human cases reported since 2003, half of which were fatal.
The Importance of Birds to Indigenous Culture
Birds are integral to the lives of Australia’s First Nations people, featuring prominently in their songs, dances, and spiritual practices. Many Indigenous communities rely on birds for food, ceremonial use, and craft materials. For instance, the magpie goose in Kakadu and mutton birds in Tasmania are central to traditional diets, while feathers are used by artisans in fashion and jewelry-making.
If H5N1 infects birds in Australia, it could devastate the livelihoods, cultures, and well-being of Indigenous communities. The loss of bird populations would not only affect food sources but also disrupt social and spiritual connections to the land.
A Growing Threat to Biodiversity
The upcoming H5N1 outbreak poses an even more significant risk to Australia’s already struggling bird populations. Following the 2019–20 bushfires, biodiversity in the southeast of Australia, particularly among bird species, has been severely impacted. Some species, such as migratory waders, may take years or even decades to recover, if they return at all.
Dr. Fiona Fraser, Australia’s Threatened Species Commissioner, warned that H5N1 may be even more ecologically devastating than the bushfires, especially for endangered species.
Mobilizing Indigenous Knowledge and Expertise
Indigenous communities are uniquely positioned to help tackle the spread of H5N1. Indigenous rangers, who play a vital role in land and water management, biodiversity surveys, and habitat restoration, are essential in monitoring bird populations and protecting native species from the effects of the virus. The presence of 87 Indigenous Protected Areas across 90 million hectares of land demonstrates the deep connection Indigenous people have with their environment.
Indigenous health organizations also have a critical role in identifying potential animal-to-human transmission cases and managing responses at the community level.
Despite the expertise and resources of Indigenous communities, federal government involvement has been insufficient in including them in preparedness and response planning for H5N1. This lack of engagement risks leaving Indigenous people vulnerable during a potential outbreak, without adequate support to protect their cultural and social fabric.
The Call for Indigenous Inclusion in Federal Planning
In response to the growing concerns, the National Indigenous Disaster Resilience at Monash University has created a fact sheet to educate First Nations communities about the bird flu and how to respond should they encounter sick or dead birds. These initiatives are aimed at filling the gap left by the federal government’s delay in providing culturally appropriate information and support.
A spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry assured that the government was working to engage First Nations communities through the Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy, which involves Indigenous Rangers in surveillance efforts in northern Australia. The department also mentioned the development of locally coordinated responses and culturally appropriate communication materials to support Indigenous communities during an outbreak.
The Bottom Line
As the world braces for the arrival of H5N1 in Australia, it is clear that the involvement of Indigenous communities is crucial for mitigating the social, cultural, and ecological damage the virus could cause. The knowledge and leadership demonstrated by Indigenous groups in responding to past crises, such as COVID-19, must be harnessed in the fight against this deadly strain of bird flu. For an effective and culturally sensitive response, the federal government must prioritize meaningful inclusion of First Nations people in planning and preparation efforts.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official position of any governmental or non-governmental organizations.
