Be Prepared for Changes to Livestock Transport Rules

AUSTRALIA - Australian dairy farmers are set to be well-prepared for upcoming changes to the national standards for transporting bobby calves, using a detailed information pack developed by Dairy Australia.
calendar icon 26 September 2012
clock icon 2 minute read

New national standards for transporting livestock, including standards and guidelines specifically for bobby calves, are expected to be introduced across Australia this year.

It will be a requirement under the new Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines - Land Transport for livestock owners, operators and receivers to comply with the new laws which specify requirements for ‘fit to load’, vehicles and facilities, time off water, journey time and more.

The new standards require all those involved in the transportation of livestock including farmers, buyers, agents, saleyard operators, transporters and meat processors to be responsible for the welfare of the animals under their care.

To ensure farmers have the latest information to comply with the new standards relating to bobby calves, Dairy Australia will mail farmers an information tool kit including a comprehensive pocket guide, fact sheet and poster supported by detailed information on the Dairy Australia website.

Under the new standards, farmers must ensure bobby calves transported for sale or slaughter are:

  • At least five days old;
  • Are fit and healthy;
  • Adequately fed within six hours of pick up.

Australian Dairy Farmers President, Chris Griffin, welcomed the new standards and said they will bring national consistency to the way bobby calves are transported and ensure positive animal welfare outcomes.

“As dairy farmers, animal welfare is of paramount importance in the way we operate and the new standards will provide consistency for our practices across Australia for the first time.”

Mr Griffin said farmers and all those involved in the bobby calf supply chain need to be aware of their obligations under the new standards and follow best practice guidelines for the management of calves.

For full information on the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Livestock go to - www.livestockwelfarestandards.net.au

The bobby calf information pack is available here.

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