Compulsory poultry housing order to be lifted in May

The compulsory housing order to protect poultry and captive birds during the higher risk period of avian influenza will be lifted on May 5, but biosecurity regulations will remain in place

The minister made the announcement but informed farmers and flock owners that they should continue to exercise caution and protect flocks as bird flu still poses a risk. File picture

The compulsory housing order for all poultry and captive birds is set to be lifted on May 5.

The housing order, which was introduced on November 10, 2025, to protect poultry and captive birds during the higher risk period of avian influenza, will be lifted on May 5, 2026. The biosecurity regulations introduced that same month will remain in place.