In this study, we report on the development of an MLST scheme for P. multocida. We have developed this scheme using 63 Australian avian P. multocida and the formal reference strains for the three subspecies of P. multocida – gallicida, multocida and septica. As well, we evaluate the retrospective use of the MLST scheme to investigate a well-characterised set of P. multocida isolates involved in outbreaks of fowl cholera on seven Australian turkey farms ( Blackall and Miflin, 2000).