New regulations will bring into effect modern and nationally-agreed animal welfare rules for transporting livestock in Western Australia.
Introduction of the Animal Welfare (Transport, Saleyards and Depots) (Cattle and Sheep) Regulations 2020 follows broad consultation by the State Government with the Western Australian community and industry.
The regulations implement the standards set out in two Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines, to ensure the welfare of sheep and cattle during land transport, and at saleyards and depots.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development will work with industry stakeholders to promote awareness of the new regulations and understanding of any changes under them.
In addition, the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Cattle have been adopted as a Code of Practice, which covers the use of pain relief when dehorning adult cattle.
More information is available at the Department website at http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/animalwelfare
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The McGowan Government amended the Animal Welfare Act 2002 in late 2018 to allow Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines to be implemented in Western Australia for the first time.
"The national standards have been endorsed by all States and Territories, some dating back to 2012.
"Implementing the transport standards now brings WA into line with other States and Territories, while we are among the first to implement the standards for saleyards and depots.
"Clearly most farmers and transporters provide excellent care for their animals, but we need the ability to take action if this does not occur.
"It is in the interest of all livestock producers to have clear and transparent standards in place.
