The world is increasingly complex with risks and consequences becoming more systemic in nature. Our sector is rapidly evolving as we are exposed to these challenges. 

To help practitioners, policy makers, and researchers in navigating these issues, AIDR, in conjunction with the National Emergency Management Agency, is excited to launch the new Spotlight Series webinars. 

The purpose of this series is to provide a forum for conversations about emerging issues in disaster risk reduction and resilience, and to highlight topics of importance that receive little attention or focus. This series will support practitioners to be informed, build knowledge and skills, and to identify sound evidence to support effective planning and practice.

The webinars will be one hour long with a feature topic and time for discussion and questions at the end. Look out for new webinars as they are developed and added to the events calendar.

Tuesday 10 November 2026, 1.00pm-2.00pm AEDT

What could an avian influenza outbreak mean for communities, beyond its immediate impacts on birds and wildlife?

Avian influenza has the potential to affect much more than birds and wildlife. Its impacts can extend across livelihoods, culture and wellbeing, creating broader challenges that require planning and preparedness across a range of sectors.

This AIDR Spotlight webinar will explore avian influenza through a community resilience lens. Hear from experts about what avian influenza is, the current situation in Australia, and the broader implications organisations may need to consider, including the potential social and psychosocial impacts on communities.

The session will support local government, community and social service organisations, health networks, emergency management practitioners and others involved in community resilience to better understand the potential impacts and consider how they can prepare for and support communities.

Presenters:

Dr Beth Cookson
Australian Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Government of Australia

Liam Naco
Principal Project Officer, Community Resilience, Preventative Health SA

Andrew Brick
Manager - Regulatory Services, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council

Hosts:

John Richardson
Executive Director,
Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience (AIDR)

Dr Mayeda Rashid
Manager Capability Development and Engagement,
Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience (AIDR)