Meat processing and animal welfare

In line with its mission to ensure that high standards of animal welfare are implemented, maintained and verified, the meat processing industry has proactively developed its own animal welfare standards and certification system to ensure animal wellbeing is its top priority.

Australian cattle and sheep are ethically and humanely processed to the strict industry standards and guidelines.

High standards of animal welfare means processors:

• Ensure livestock are assessed before processing to ensure they’re healthy and disease free
• Move livestock calmly in yards using low-stress stock handling techniques
• Ensure livestock do not suffer unreasonable or unnecessary pain or distress at the end of their lives.

How do Australian meat processors safeguard animal welfare?

The Australian meat processing industry’s mission is to ensure that high standards of animal welfare are implemented, maintained and verified. The Australian processing sector worked with industry and the RSPCA to contribute to Industry Animal Welfare Standards and guidelines to meet the requirements for the provision of good animal welfare. The Animal Welfare Certification System (AAWCS) is an independently audited certification program. It is used by livestock processors to demonstrate compliance with Australian industry standards from receival of livestock to the point of humane processing.

The certification system is linked to a certified trademark that enables meat processors to display their commitment to best practice. The program has coverage of more than 80% of meat production and the trademark has been adopted commercially at some retail supermarkets in Australia.

Which animal welfare regulations must Australian meat processors follow?

Australian meat processors also follow regulations mandated by federal, state and territory animal welfare, environment, waste and planning legislation. Each state and territory have specific regulations in place to protect the welfare of animals during processing. These requirements are enforced by state inspectors and commercial auditors, and for premises that are preparing meat for export, the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.

Did you know?

• The Australian meat processing industry is the single largest exporter of Australian food products.
• The industry is also an important source of employment in rural and regional Australia. In 2018–19, the sector accounted for 31,200 jobs, with the majority located outside capital cities.
• Australia’s red meat and livestock industry contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) was $17.6 billion in 2018–19.