ThE Federal Government says it is awaiting scientific advice before moving to ban importing of live birds.
It has already barred imports from Canada after the discovery of a batch of racing pigeons in which three tested positive to avian flu antibodies.
But the Canadian ban was reactive. Canberra must now become proactive and ban live bird imports from anywhere.
Some dismiss the avian flu scare as overreaction, but the mood of world governments -- usually slow off the mark in the face of a crisis -- suggests it is very serious.
Health Minister Tony Abbott is at a conference with health ministers from 30 countries, as well as officials from the World Health Organisation. Avian flu, which is surfacing in an increasing number of countries, will be on the agenda.
Though infection is still limited to transmission from birds to people, health experts believe the virus could evolve and that transmission between humans will lead to a disastrous pandemic.
In the meantime, it is nonsensical that live birds, including such low-priority imports as racing pigeons, can still be brought into Australia.
Today the Herald Sun lists major measures planned by the authorities to cope with a pandemic. It is abundantly clear resources would be severely strained.
While we must plan for the worst, the Government must also do what it can to close the door on the killer virus -- including an end to the import of potential carriers.
