The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is reminding those involved in the transport of livestock that new transport regulations have come into force.
Director Regional Compliance – South at the Department, Russell Adams said the Animal Welfare (Transport, Saleyards and Depots) (Cattle and Sheep) Regulations 2020 sought to provide improved animal welfare outcomes for sheep and cattle during land transport and at saleyards and depots.
“The regulations apply from the farm gate to the final destination and at all stages in between during the transport process,” Mr Adams said.
“They start when the sheep or cattle are mustered in Western Australia or outside of the State if they are coming from interstate, and end when the transported animals are given reasonable access to water and feed at a final destination, like a farm, feedlot or are processed.”
He said the regulations covered assembling, while in holding facilities like yards, saleyards and depots, when selecting, loading and being held on a vehicle — whether the vehicle was stationary, moving or being unloaded — and when the animals were being spelled.
“The regulations came into place after an extensive industry consultation process and have been supported by a widespread education campaign,” Mr Adams said.
“Compliance officers will be visiting saleyards and areas throughout the transport supply chain to talk to industry stakeholders about their obligations under the regulations and to make sure they do the right thing.”
Failure to comply with the regulations risk an on-the-spot infringement notice with fines ranging from $500 to $750, while more serious offences would be referred to the courts where penalties of up to $15,000 applied.
