To anonymously report concerns about live animal exports, call 1800 319 595 or report online.
For more information, see Whistleblower hotline.
We support strong animal welfare standards and believe all animals have the right to humane treatment.
Animal welfare in live animal exports is regulated under the regulatory framework.
The Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock (ASEL) sets the minimum animal health and welfare conditions to export livestock from Australia. We are committed to undertaking regular, consultative, science and evidence-based, user-centric updates and reviews of ASEL. These updates ensure the standards remain fit for purpose and reflect the latest scientific evidence and best practice.
Following arrival in the importing country, feeder and slaughter livestock must be handled and slaughtered in accordance with the Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS). ESCAS states the requirements for control, traceability, animal welfare and independent auditing. ESCAS animal welfare requirements are based on recommendations by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
We review the live animal export trade to inform policy and standards development as well as guide our reform activities. These reviews, along with analyses of science and evidence, stakeholder consultation and independent reviews, such as by the Inspector-General of Animal Welfare and Live Animal Exports (IGAWLAE), help us continually improve animal welfare outcomes in the livestock export supply chain.