Issued by Senator the Hon Murray Watt - former Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Have your say on the new Inspector-General of Animal Welfare
Stakeholders from across the country are being invited to have their say on how the Albanese Government’s new Inspector-General of Animal Welfare will operate.
The Albanese Government committed to establishing an Inspector-General of Animal Welfare at the last election and is now delivering on that commitment.
This will be implemented by expanding the current office of the Inspector-General of Live Animal Exports to include defined animal welfare related objectives and expertise.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said the new Inspector General for Animal Welfare and Live Animal Exports (IGAWLAE) will strengthen animal welfare assurance and increase accountability and transparency for animal welfare in livestock exports.
The welfare of animals being exported is a Commonwealth responsibility, while domestic animal welfare is the responsibility of State and Territory governments.
“This government takes animal welfare seriously and understands its importance to Australian farmers, the community and our international reputation,” Minister Watt said.
“That is why we committed almost $4 million towards establishing the IGAWLAE.
“Public consultation is now open through the department’s ‘Have Your Say’ platform, inviting submissions on the role of the new IGAWLAE.
“The live export industry, state and territory governments, production industries and animal welfare bodies will be consulted on the specific animal welfare objectives of the expanded office.
“All submissions will be considered and will assist in informing the establishment of the new position.
“The IGAWLAE will strengthen animal welfare assurance and increase accountability and transparency for animal welfare in livestock exports.”
Have Your Say’ on the IGAWLAE here https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/inspector-general-animal-welfare.
Submissions are due by 5pm 2 March 2023. The specific objectives and date of establishment for the expanded office will be finalised after consultation.