Options for the Development of National Standards and Guidelines for Animal Welfare
The AWTG are continuing discussions on the next steps in AWTG’s work to improve the process for developing national animal welfare standards and guidelines.
Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Livestock at Processing Facilities and Establishments
AWTG 25-04 discussed the approach to public consultation and regulation impact analysis.
Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Land Transport of Livestock – horses
Ministers continue to work towards national endorsement of amendments to the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines – Land Transport of Livestock to improve the welfare of horses.
Pig Welfare
AWTG continue to discuss details of a project by Australian Pork Limited to improve the welfare of pigs.
Virtual Fencing Technology
AWTG are working towards the finalisation of the Australian Animal Welfare Guide for Virtual Fencing.
Implementation of the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry into state and territory legislation
AWTG noted an update from Victoria and agreed that the work of the subgroup to examine specific cross-jurisdictional issues around implementation of the poultry standards has concluded. The outcomes from the subgroup will be used to inform work by individual jurisdictions as they continue to progress implementation of the standards into state and territory legislation. Progress by jurisdictions to implement the standards will continue to be discussed at each AWTG meeting.
Renewed Australian Animal Welfare Strategy (AAWS)
AWTG noted an update from the Commonwealth that chapter drafting for the Livestock and Production and Aquatic Animals chapters of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy is underway. Drafting is being informed by science and evidence and from information provided through the consultation process to date. The AWTG continues its governance role.