The escalating bird flu crisis, explained

August 4, 2026

Six weeks ago, the deadly H5 bird flu strain reached Australian soil for the very first time.

Now, it’s been detected in around 80 cases across four states.

This week, the Government confirmed the first H5 mass mortality event and warned of “significant losses” and a “long difficult journey ahead” as attention turns to the impact of this outbreak on wildlife and agriculture. 

Today we'll unpack what this means for Australian animals, poultry populations, and your grocery bill. 

Hosts: Emma Gillespie and Sam KoslowskiProducer: Orla MaherVideo editor: Imogen Abbott

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The escalating bird flu crisis, explained