Public consultation on standards in the Australian live export industry will kick off soon, following announcement of an expert panel to lead a federal government review.
The review of Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock (ASEL) was announced mid-2017 and will include handling of animals the supply chain from on-farm to discharge in the importing country.
The Agriculture Department announced members of the technical advisory committee today.
It is lead by independent chairman and former West Australian Senator Dr Chris Back and includes two animal welfare experts, a regulation specialist and an industry experts.
- Dr Chris Back, chairman
- Dr Teresa Collins, animal health and welfare
- Dr Hugh Millar, animal health and welfare
- Mr Russell Phillips, regulation
- Mr Kevin Shiell, livestock industry
Committee members are appointed for two years and will commence their work immediately.
The Department’s deputy secretary Malcolm Thompson said the review was critical to the live export industry’s future.
“We want to maintain Australia’s reputation as a world leader in animal welfare standards and as an ethical and reliable trading partner for quality protein,” Mr Thompson said.
“This committee will work closely with a Reference Group of key stakeholders, including Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council, the RSPCA, livestock producer bodies and the Australian Veterinary Association to ensure the standards consider livestock industry innovation and development, along with the latest animal health and welfare research.”
Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council (ALEC) chief executive Simon Westaway welcomed the announcement.
“This review is strongly supported by ALEC because it will ensure ASEL reflects new technology and research and that existing high industry standards continue to be aligned with community expectations,” he said.
“ALEC wants ASEL to remain a benchmark which promotes a sustainable and growing live trade for Australia.”