Heatwave conditions have been recorded in some parts of eastern Australia on 7-10th January 2026, including ACT, NSW, SA and VIC. There have been reports of affected wildlife, particularly mass mortalities in flying-foxes. Members of the public who come across heat-affected wildlife should report these animals directly to the relevant agencies or organisations in their jurisdiction. Members of the public should not touch or handle flying-foxes due to the risk of exposure to diseases such as Australian bat lyssavirus.
VIC
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) - Extreme heat events and wildlife
NSW
NSW Environment and Heritage - Heat stress in flying-fox camps
SA
Department of Environment and Water - How to help native animals in hot weather
ACT
Parks ACT - Wildlife
Information on heat stress events in flying-foxes is available in the WHA Fact Sheet Heat events and Australian flying-foxes.