A recently completed research project aimed at helping the red meat processing industry understand and adapt to changing animal welfare regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance, enhancing industry capability, and maintaining community trust.

In collaboration with processors, industry stakeholders and governments, the Australian Meat Processor Corporation project reviewed a section of the draft national welfare standards, delivered tailored training to processors at workshops around the country and compared the Australian Livestock Processing Industry Animal Welfare Certification System with similar frameworks overseas.

AMPC program manager Ann McDonald said the project demonstrated AMPC’s commitment to supporting a sustainable, compliant, and forward-thinking red meat processing industry that continues to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare.

“The review of the AAWCS confirmed that Australia exceeds key international standards, demonstrating that the Australian red meat processing industry is world-leading and uses best practice in animal welfare,” Ms McDonald said.

“AMPC received positive feedback from the processors involved in the training, indicating that the tailored training significantly improved understanding of welfare responsibilities and confidence in meeting certification and regulatory requirements,” she said.

AAWCS ensures adherence to best-practice animal welfare standards from the receival of livestock through to processing, with accredited facilities processing more than 80 percent of Australia’s cattle sheep and pigs.

“While the review confirmed AAWCS exceed or is equivalent to key international standards, our industry continues to evolve and improve, with emerging technologies such as AI offering the potential to enhance monitoring and verification of animal welfare outcomes,” AMIC chief executive Tim Ryan said.

Benefits to the red meat processing industry

This initiative is expected to significantly enhance processor readiness for updated animal welfare standards and guidelines.

The findings provide clear guidance on how processors can achieve and demonstrate the benefits of compliance with AAWCS.

The research identified future research, development, and extension opportunities that could help lower compliance costs while improving animal welfare outcomes.

The project also establishes a solid foundation for further investment in new technologies that enhance transparency and efficiency in animal welfare assurance across the industry.

Click here to read the research report and download the comparative analysis of Australian industry standards against international frameworks.