environment · City of Vincent
Vincent’s H5N1 wildlife response could reach $250,000
The City of Vincent has outlined indicative costs of about $50,000 for a minor H5N1 wildlife event and up to $250,000 for a major outbreak, including carcass disposal, inspections, staffing and public messaging.
A major H5N1 avian influenza outbreak in wildlife could cost the City of Vincent up to $250,000, with carcass disposal, inspections, extra staff and public messaging among the likely demands on services.
The City noted its preparedness for a possible outbreak on 14 July. Its response would depend on the number of wildlife deaths, how widely they were spread and how long they continued. Bird carcasses could be found on private property, in parks and reserves, and along streets and verges.
For a minor scenario, defined as low deaths over less than six months, the City said it could work within existing budgets and staffing, with some changes to priorities and service levels. The indicative cost was about $50,000. That response would not include daily inspections or carcass removal within 24 hours.
A moderate scenario, involving increased deaths over more than six months, was estimated at $100,000 to $150,000. It could involve more frequent inspections of heavily used areas, agency or casual staff, temporary service reductions and deferral of lower-priority projects.
A major outbreak could require a dedicated response team, extra staff and dedicated equipment, such as a small waste truck or similar vehicle. The indicative cost was about $200,000 to $250,000.
Mindarie Regional Council is assessing specific carcass disposal requirements. The Western Australian Local Government Association is advocating for clearer local-government responsibilities and resourcing during an H5N1 outbreak.
Cr Sophie Greer asked how the City could reach people beyond bird-conservation groups, including pet owners at dog parks. Administration said it would consider community education through ranger patrols, community organisations and sporting clubs, alongside an anticipated broader State Government campaign.
Parks staff are auditing City-owned bird and bat boxes before investigating suitable suppliers, costs and ways to provide nesting boxes to residents. The investigation is expected to be carried out in the first half of this financial year, with the intention of allocating funding and including costs in fees and charges for rollout in 2027/28.
Reference minutes
City of Vincent Council Briefing held on 14 July 2026.
Key facts from the minutes
- The City of Vincent noted its preparedness for a possible H5N1 avian influenza outbreak.
- A minor scenario was estimated at about $50,000.
- A moderate scenario was estimated at $100,000 to $150,000.
- A major scenario was estimated at about $200,000 to $250,000.
- Potential measures include signage, inspections, additional staffing and carcass disposal.
- Mindarie Regional Council is assessing specific carcass disposal requirements.
- A bird and bat box audit could inform a proposed 2027/28 rollout for residents.
Why it matters
- A significant wildlife outbreak would place pressure on Vincent’s staffing, waste services, public messaging and operational budgets, while residents may receive guidance about bird carcasses and new signage.