This review will seek to present an overview of the range of bacterial zoonotic infections that are relevant in the Australian context. The major pathogens are similar to those seen in most other developed countries. The key food-borne pathogens are Campylobacter, Escherichia coli and Salmonella. The various animal industries face different combinations of these pathogens – for example poultry meat has been linked with Campylobacter and Salmonella while eggs have been linked with Salmonella. Ruminants are linked with the pathogenic forms of Escherichia coli. To date, vegetables and similar crops (with some notable exceptions that will be highlighted) are not as commonly associated with bacterial zoonotic infections as has been the case in some other developed countries. Understanding the ecology of these pathogens in their natural environment and basing control measures on that knowledge is a key mechanism for reducing the impact of zoonotic infections. Additionally, the review will also cover the somewhat more eclectic zoonotic infections – involving both Australian fauna (koalas in particular) as well as infections associated with bites, dust and water.