The Allan Labor Government is backing our world class agriculture industry by improving animal welfare standards and ensuring the long-term sustainability and profitability of Victoria's pig farms.
The Labor Government has welcomed the findings of the Parliamentary Inquiry into pig welfare and supports 16 of the Inquiry's 18 recommendations to improve pig welfare in Victoria.
The Government supports the recommendation to replace the Code of Practice for pig welfare with national standards and guidelines for pigs.
Several Inquiry recommendations, including the investigation of commercially viable alternatives to carbon dioxide, alternatives to blunt force trauma, the phase out of sow stalls and farrowing crates, and the introduction of enrichment aids, will be best achieved through these national standards.
The Government recognises the significant work the Victorian pork industry has already undertaken to improve the welfare of farmed pigs and will continue to work closely with the pig industry and animal welfare organisations on the implementation of these recommendations.
The national Animal Welfare Task Group (AWTG) oversees the development of this work and national standards and guidelines for pig welfare are included in their forward program.
Victoria is actively involved in national projects to develop Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines (S&G), including recent work to develop S&G for livestock at processing establishments.
Victoria's pig industry is worth $334 million, with 250 commercial pig farm businesses in operation and employs over 1,900.
Victorians care about animals and how they are treated. While people rely on animals for food, fibre, companionship, assistance and other reasons, animals also rely on humans to treat them well and provide for their needs appropriately.
The Government's full response is available at parliament.vic.gov.au/pigwelfare.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence
"Victoria has some of the best produce in the world and part of that includes having high animal welfare standards - these changes will ensure Victoria's pig industry can continue to thrive on the global stage."
"We look forward to continuing to work with industry and animal advocacy groups to start implementing the recommendations to improve the way pigs are treated and cared for on Victorian farms."
