Victorian Poisons Centre (VPC) Madeline Heiner, Pharmacy Manager and Shaun Greene, Medical Director

20 April 2026

Austin Health is reminding Victorians to take care around wild mushrooms this autumn, with early calls already being received by the Victorian Poisons Centre (VPC) following recent rainfall.

VPC, which is managed by Austin Health, provides 24-hour expert advice to the public and healthcare professionals across the state. The service typically sees an increase in mushroom-related calls between late March and early winter.

Experts warn that some toxic mushrooms can cause delayed and potentially life-threatening illness, even when symptoms are mild or absent at first.

Last year, VPC received 436 calls related to mushroom exposures. While most people were not experiencing symptoms at the time of calling, 98 cases involved minor symptoms, 23 were classified as moderate, and two were severe.

Of these cases, 39 people were referred to hospital for further assessment, while in 116 instances hospital emergency departments contacted VPIC directly for specialist advice.

Associate Professor Shaun Greene, Medical Director of the Victorian Poisons Centre and Director of Toxicology at Austin Health, said the start of the season is a timely reminder for the community.

“We see calls every year from people who have eaten wild mushrooms and become unwell,” Associate Professor Greene said.

“Some poisonous mushrooms can cause symptoms that are delayed, meaning people may not feel unwell straight away, or may feel better before becoming more seriously ill.”

Some wild mushrooms found in Victoria, including the death cap mushroom, can be highly toxic if consumed. Others can cause significant gastrointestinal illness.

There is no reliable way for members of the public to distinguish edible mushrooms from poisonous varieties.

“As a general rule, people should avoid eating wild mushrooms unless they have expert knowledge,” Associate Professor Greene said.

Anyone who suspects they or someone in their care may have eaten a poisonous mushroom should contact the Victorian Poisons Centre on 13 11 26. The service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If possible, keep a sample of the mushroom or take a photo to assist with expert identification.

If a person is experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, collapse or seizures, call 000 immediately.