The keeping of backyard poultry gives great enjoyment to many people. As more people in Victoria purchase small acreages, poultry ownership is becoming a popular and economically beneficial pastime. The production of fresh eggs and meat for human consumption, plus the enjoyment they give as pets or show birds, makes poultry valuable members of many families.

Unfortunately, poultry, just like dogs and cats, may become ill from many causes. There are a few major categories of disease that commonly occur in small poultry flocks. These include external and internal parasites, Marek's disease, respiratory disease, nutritional problems, reproductive diseases and fowl pox.

Poultry owners also need to be aware of those diseases exotic to Australia. Exotic diseases pose a risk to commercial poultry flocks if they enter Australia, so poultry keepers need to be aware of these diseases, and report them to the Department of Primary Industries promptly if suspected.