Guidelines for the welfare of cattle, sheep and goats are an important part of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy.
Production guidelines are developed, supported and funded by the government, the Australian Dairy Farmers association, the Australian Lot Feeders Association and the Cattle Council of Australia. This is underpinned by Australian law, which is in line with, or stricter than, equivalent legislation in Europe.
Animal health and welfare is certified through the Australian Livestock Processing Industry Animal Welfare Certification System (AAWCS) scheme, which upholds the strictest of standards of welfare accreditation for agriculture animals.
It provides guidance on ensuring animal welfare, and auditable metrics to measure minimum welfare, hygiene and transportation standards.