Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Livestock at Processing Facilities and Establishments
AWTG 07-22 noted an update from Queensland that the scientific literature review commissioned by AWTG to inform the development of the new standards and guidelines is in its final stages, with peer review in progress. The review will be made publicly available when finalised. AWTG 07-21 also noted that a Stakeholder Advisory Group (SAG) has been established. The Terms of Reference for the SAG will be available online shortly. The appointment of an independent facilitator for SAG meetings is progressing. The SAG will commence formal virtual meetings in early 2022.
Suitability of horses under existing Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Land Transport of Livestock
On 6 August 2021, AWTG 05-21 endorsed proposals to revise the horse-specific parts of the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for the Land Transport of Livestock. The proposals consider stakeholder feedback gathered by AWTG in April-May 2021. AWTG 07-21 noted an update from Queensland that preparation for a Consultation Regulation Impact Statement and draft amended Standards and Guidelines (Chapter B8 – Specific requirements for the land transport of horses) is in progress. The consultation will be published on the Office of Best Practice Regulation website (obpr.pmc.gov.au). Key stakeholders will be notified by AWTG when consultation is open (expected December 2021) and will be encouraged to share the opportunity with their members and networks.
Virtual Fencing Technology
The Commonwealth presented a scoping paper seeking agreement on options and timelines to progress jurisdiction collaboration on regulatory issues related to virtual fencing technology. The paper: identified potential options for regulatory harmonisation of virtual fencing technology; proposed the Commonwealth undertake a scientific literature review; and proposed the establishment of a stakeholder reference group. AWTG members agreed that a smaller sub-group consisting of representatives from the Commonwealth, NSW, WA, QLD and VIC would convene to progress the proposals discussed in the paper. An update will be provided to AGSOC.
Further Information
Contact the secretariat: awtg@aff.gov.au
Post: AWTG c/- Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries,
GPO Box 858, Canberra ACT 2601, Australia