Model Codes of Practice for Animal Welfare

Through the sub-committee on Animal Welfare, Primary Industries Ministerial Council (PIMC) has developed a number of Model Codes of Practice for the Welfare of Animals. These codes are intended as a guide for the individual States and Territories in the development of their own Codes of Practice for the Welfare of Animals.

The Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: Pigs
This Code was revised in 2007 and encourages efficient and considerate treatment and handling of pigs in all types of production systems. It was developed in full consultation with animal industries, welfare groups and relevant State and Australian Government authorities. The key changes to the Welfare Code are:

• The area of all new stalls will be increased;

• For pregnant sows there will be a maximum of six weeks (previously 16 weeks) confinement in stalls, after which they will be released into group housing situations with other sows. i.e. They will only be allowed to be individually housed until they are mated and their pregnancy is confirmed. This protects them from aggression from other sows that can cause early pregnancy loss;

• There will be a requirement for persons managing and conducting procedures on pigs to be trained or under the direct supervision of a person who is trained;

• Stock people will be required to inspect their pigs regularly and more often in hot conditions;

• Sows that are placed into farrowing crates to give birth must not be left there for longer than six weeks;

• Farrowing crate area is to be increased in all new installations;

• The use of any stall or crates for boars or sows will require that they be appropriate for the size of the animal and allow them to stand and lie down without obstruction or injury;

• Boars must be released for exercise;

• Where there is any evidence of serious behavioural problems due to individual housing, the animals must be examined by a qualified person and treated;

• Development of recommendations for keeping of pigs in free-range situations, including their shelter and accommodation.

• A recommendation that pig farmers join their industry quality assurance management programs to provide improved welfare, high skill levels and greater market opportunity.

The revised Code includes implementation deadlines following its publication on the following key standards:

• three years for skill training of staff;

• five years for pen size allowance increases; and

• ten years to introduce the 6 week limit for use of sow stalls

Further information

Model Code: Land Transport of Pigs
APL recognises that education and communication programs for producers, transporters and saleyard agents play an important role in protecting pig welfare. APL plays a central role encouraging proactive behaviours, communicating pig welfare responsibilities and the benefits for the entire pig industry.

In 2009, work began on developing a National Fit-to-Load Guide for the Australian pork industry. The National Fit-to-Load Guide for the Australian pork industry is being developed in consultation with abattoirs, government agencies, producers, educators and pig transporters. This will be based on the Code and will be distributed nationally to producers. It will draw upon international scientific research, international codes of practice, contemporary Australian industry practice and the Code. It will also draw on improved practices in relation to pigs being fit to transport.

The National Fit-to-Load Guide will raise producer awareness of pig welfare requirements for transport under the Code. The National Fit-to-Load Guide will also provide relevant information to regulators, veterinary consultants and inspectors.

Information about the Land Transport Standards are available at www.animalwelfarestandards.net.au

Australian Standards and Guidelines for the Welfare of Animals - Land Transport of Livestock
  
If you require further information please contact Kathleen Plowman or Tim Flor at APL's Policy Division on 1800 789 099.

Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: Livestock at Slaughering Establishments