The H5N1 strain has reached every continent except Australia, and experts predict it could arrive this spring as birds migrate south.
Scavenging animals and predator birds are at high risk of infection through eating infected birds or carcasses.
The chief vet mentioned that Tasmanian devils and Australia’s eagle population are particularly at risk if the strain reaches Australia.
Previous outbreaks of the H5N1 strain have devastated animal populations in South America.
If the virus reaches Australia, it could have dire consequences for native species already struggling to survive.
Increased measures and planning are needed to mitigate the potential impact on the Tasmanian devil population.