Australia’s consumer watchdog has extended its temporary pause on enforcing free-range egg labelling rules as the H5 bird flu threat continues to grow.

The decision allows free-range egg producers to keep hens indoors for safety while continuing to sell their eggs as “free range.”

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says farmers must clearly inform retailers and consumers when birds are being housed indoors.

Officials stress that H5 bird flu has not yet spread to Australia’s commercial poultry industry, but the risk is increasing as infections continue among wild birds.

The ACCC has not announced an end date for the enforcement pause and says the situation will remain under review.

Authorities say the temporary measure is designed to protect Australia’s poultry industry while ensuring consumers are kept informed during the ongoing bird flu threat.