Poultry industry not cracking over bird flu fears
The Australian poultry industry is implementing heightened biosecurity measures following the detection of the H5N1 bird flu strain in Western Australia and South Australia. While the risk to humans remains low, producers are preparing for potential outbreaks to protect the multibillion-dollar sector.
Why it matters
An outbreak could have severe economic consequences for the poultry industry, including export bans and increased food prices for consumers.
News Business Opinion In Depth Events Quiz Donate Subscribe Life in South Australia SALife Adelaide Guide & Events Citymag Arts News & Reviews InReview Best SA Homes Premium Property News Business Opinion In Depth Events Quiz Donate Subscribe In Depth Poultry industry not cracking over bird flu fears The poultry industry is on high alert. But authorities have had years to prepare for this moment and plans are being put in place, writes Jose Quinteros. T C The Conversation Jun 29, 2026, updated Jun 29, 2026 Picture: Polly Sadler/Unsplash After being detected for the very first time in two seabirds in Western Australia less than a week ago, the deadly H5N1 strain of bird flu has also arrived in a second state – with a case confirmed in South Australia.
The article provides a balanced overview of industry risks and government preparedness measures.
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