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Stochastic models indicate rapid smallpox spread and mass mortality of Indigenous Australians after colonial exposure

The impact of smallpox (variola) on Aboriginal communities in Australia beginning in 1789 was catastrophic and continues to cause intergenerational trauma. Historically biased perspectives and contemporary misinformation of the disease's introduction and spread impede modern-day truth-telling and efforts towards reconciliation and national healing.

Citation:
Nitschke MC, Williams AN, Ingrey SD, ……… Fatima SH, McNiven IJ, et al. Stochastic models indicate rapid smallpox spread and mass mortality of Indigenous Australians after colonial exposure. Nature Human Behaviour. 2026. 

Keywords:
Aboriginal health; indigenous; smallpox; epidemiological models; 

Abstract:
The impact of smallpox (variola) on Aboriginal communities in Australia beginning in 1789 was catastrophic and continues to cause intergenerational trauma. Historically biased perspectives and contemporary misinformation of the disease's introduction and spread impede modern-day truth-telling and efforts towards reconciliation and national healing.