The implementation of the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines in Western Australia has not been possible to date, for reasons relating to the legal scope of the Animal Welfare Act 2002 (the Act).
Amendments to the Act were introduced to State Parliament via the Animal Welfare Amendment Bill 2017 (the Bill) in October 2017. On 20 November 2018, the amended Bill was passed by the State Parliament.
The amendments provide for the making of regulations giving effect to the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines (Standards and Guidelines) for livestock.
The national Standards set mandatory requirements for the humane treatment of animals. The Guidelines advise on recommended practices but are not mandatory.
Implementation progress reports on the national standards and guidelines are available on the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines website for the following areas:
- Land Transport of Livestock
- Saleyards and Depots
- Cattle
- Sheep
- Goats (voluntary standards and guidelines)