Australia's agriculture ministers have confirmed their commitment to further strengthen the nation's animal welfare system by endorsing a National Statement on Animal Welfare.
Acknowledging the role of practices and standards informed by science and evidence, the nationally agreed statement sets a vision and key priority areas for Australia's animal welfare system.
Through the statement, agriculture ministers have cemented a commitment to joint leadership, sending an important signal to all Australians and our trading partners that animal welfare is a major priority for this country.
The statement acknowledges opportunities across leadership and coordination, standards and implementation, reporting and compliance, research and development, education and communication, and international engagement.
It also recognises the interconnectedness of animal welfare, human wellbeing, animal and human health, the environment and climate change, biosecurity, and Australia's socioeconomic sustainability and prosperity.
Strong animal welfare standards will also support increased access to overseas markets, and strengthen the reputation of our animal and agricultural industries with trading partners.
Case studies to support the national statement have also been released, acknowledging the good work already underway in promoting strong animal welfare outcomes across a broad range of animal species.
The statement underpins the renewal of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy, which has received a funding commitment of $5 million across 4 years (from 2023-24) from the Albanese Labor Government.
