The NSW government has organised two online workshops throughout October for private veterinarians and wildlife rehabilitators on H5 preparedness.
These workshops will focus on strengthening preparedness and prevention for High Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 through practical, site-based biosecurity upscaling. Experience overseas has shown that HPAI can present an ongoing and evolving risk, highlighting the importance of building sustainable approaches that enable veterinary practices to continue providing appropriate care for birds presented to them while protecting staff, other animals and their facilities.
Workshop focus
Participants will build practical knowledge and skills to:
- identify key disease risks associated with on-site inputs, outputs and activities
- implement proportionate and effective biosecurity measures to prevent or minimise the introduction of HPAI
- understand first responder actions and immediate containment measures
- identify clear next steps following a suspected or confirmed case.
The workshop will focus on practical application, building confidence, consistency and readiness across sites while supporting participants to safely manage animals in their care.
Workshop facilitator
The workshop will be delivered by Dr Jayne Weller BSc, BA, BVSc, CertZooMed (RCVS), MANZCVS (Avian Medicine & Surgery), Zoo, Wildlife & Exotic Pet Veterinarian.
Dr Jayne Weller is an experienced zoo, wildlife and exotic pet veterinarian with expertise in conservation medicine, biosecurity and clinical care of non-traditional species.
Her experience includes:
- infectious disease management and wildlife health surveillance
- preparedness and response to emerging biosecurity threats
- development of hazard identification frameworks and disease preparedness guidelines
- cross-institutional response planning for high-consequence pathogens
- complex medical and surgical care of birds, reptiles, marsupials, bats and other exotic species
- veterinary education and capacity building in wildlife health and emergency preparedness.
Jayne holds a Certificate in Zoological Medicine through the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and Membership with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Avian Medicine and Surgery.
Her work brings together frontline veterinary care, biosecurity and conservation, with a strong focus on building practical veterinary capability and strengthening preparedness for animal health emergencies.
Veterinarians:
Date/Time: 22 Oct 2026 7pm-8:30pm
Wildlife Carers and Rehabilitators:
Date/Time: 27 Oct 2026 7pm-8:30pm
