Canberra-NSW Funding Talks Stall as Melbourne Royal Show Cancels Poultry Events Amid Bird Flu Concerns

The Melbourne Royal Show has cancelled all poultry competitions and exhibitions for 2026, taking a major precaution as H5 bird flu cases continue to rise across Australia. The decision comes just days after the Victorian government confirmed that Phillip Island’s wild little penguins will be vaccinated against the fast‑spreading strain.

Melbourne Royal Show executive general manager Hannah von Bibra said the organisation had been working closely with Agriculture Victoria and the state’s chief veterinary officer, stressing that animal welfare remains the top priority. “Melbourne Royal is taking this precautionary step to protect the health and wellbeing of the Victorian poultry community,” she said.

Although no H5N1 detections have been found in Australian poultry so far, von Bibra said the situation remains unpredictable. “We want to give our community as much certainty as possible,” she added, noting that the cancellation is intended to safeguard exhibitors, breeders and animals ahead of next year’s event.

The move marks one of the most significant program changes in the show’s recent history and reflects a broader national effort to contain the virus and protect vulnerable species.

Meanwhile, in New South Wales, funding negotiations between the state and federal governments have stalled over a major industrial support package. During a December visit to the Hunter region, the prime minister told workers at the Tomago aluminium site he believed a deal could be reached quickly. But progress slowed when both governments failed to agree on a clear funding split.

It is understood the Commonwealth pushed for a 50:50 arrangement, similar to the deal struck with Queensland for the Boyne Aluminium Smelter near Gladstone. NSW Premier Chris Minns resisted the proposal, arguing that any state contribution must be in the best interests of NSW taxpayers.

Since then, the NSW government has confirmed it has allocated an undisclosed amount in this year’s budget to support the project a sign that negotiations may still be alive, even if the final agreement remains out of reach.