As H5 bird flu spreads through Australian wildlife and the nation records its first mass mortality event, Wildlife Recovery Australia is calling on the Australian Government to establish a national fleet of mobile wildlife hospitals capable of being deployed wherever the next wildlife emergency occurs.

When disaster strikes, wildlife response cannot be worked out on the run

Australia is no stranger to natural disasters. Bushfires, floods, cyclones and extreme weather events are becoming increasingly frequent and severe.

When these disasters strike, our emergency services mobilise. Communities evacuate. Relief centres open. Systems designed to protect people, property and livestock are put into action.

But for native wildlife, the response is often far less certain.

Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital is calling for a Northern Rivers farmer to become the first participant in an exciting new initiative that aims to harness the power of native wildlife to help restore natural balance on Australian farms

Non-profit environmental conservation charity Wildlife Recovery Australia generated $4.4 million in value added and supported 28 jobs in Australia in 2025, according to an independent economic impact report commissioned by the organisation.

An Eastern grey kangaroo receives urgent veterinary care in the aftermath of ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Photo: James D Morgan | Getty Images