MLA Integrity Systems Company says Australian red meat producers can now easily demonstrate their animal welfare credentials to domestic and international customers following a recent addition to the Animal Welfare module in the Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) program.

An Animal Welfare Management Plan is now part of Livestock Production Assurance accreditation, and a new tool is available in LPA accounts to help producers complete and submit a plan specific for their operation.

The new tool supports producers to complete their AWMP by asking questions which are both specific to the species they produce and in line with the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines.

MLA Integrity Systems Company says the addition of the AWMP to LPA accreditation is part of a broader, industry-led effort to strengthen transparency and trust in animal welfare practices in Australia.

It says the tool enables producers to not only demonstrate their credentials when it comes to looking after livestock under their care – but also provides evidence of the implementation of on-farm management practices that result in high animal welfare outcomes to domestic and international customers of Australian red meat, bolstering export opportunities and delivering value back to farm gate.

Integrity Systems Company CEO, Jo Quigley, said that animal welfare was one of the key components of the LPA program.

“Animal welfare is one of the many things that Australia’s red meat and livestock industry stand behind – with an ongoing commitment to showing our leadership when it comes to looking after livestock in our care,” Ms Quigley said.

“By completing an Animal Welfare Management Plan, producers and livestock handlers will gain a more detailed understanding of the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines and can demonstrate how their on-farm animal welfare practices are being conducted in accordance with the standards.

“Red meat producers can create their Animal Welfare Management Plan at any time. It’s a self-assessment in the form of a series of questions that producers answer to show how they meet each of the animal welfare standards relevant to the species they farm.

“Having evidence of high animal welfare outcomes is important from an education perspective, but it is also crucial for both our domestic and international customers to show we are hitting the mark when it comes to the welfare of livestock on Australian farms.”

A producer’s perspective

Producer Sam White, (pictured above) a sixth-generation farmer at Bald Blair Angus, Guyra, NSW, considers a steadfast focus on high animal welfare ‘integral’ to running a modern farming business.

“Over the years expectations have changed socially. As expectations grow, the quality of animal welfare management has evolved to meet that.  Saying ‘we didn’t do it that way before’ is no longer an argument,” Mr White said.

“Our mechanism in documenting and placing the onus on the producer to demonstrate high levels of animal welfare through LPA is one of Australia’s differentiating factors in ensuring that not only are our animals cared for, but our customers can be reassured that standards are met and expectations exceeded.

“In order to maintain ethical and marketable production, we need to utilise the tools available to make our job more efficient.

“Livestock health and wellbeing are fundamental to the success and sustainability of every farm. Red meat consumers, both here in Australia and overseas, seek reassurance that livestock are cared for humanely and ethically.

“Any LPA accredited producer should feel comfortable documenting their animal welfare reporting requirements because it is already a part of daily operations.”

AWMP tool available now

The AWMP tool is now available in LPA accounts and producers can complete their AWMP during accreditation, reaccreditation or on demand at any time.

A transition period for LPA audits has been established to support producers with this new requirement. From 1 September 2025, producers will need to have a AWMP completed if they are undergoing an LPA audit. If this is not completed, producers will have 30 days to submit their plan.

Seven day a week customer service

Producers can contact ISC’s Customer Service team seven days a week on 1800 683 111 or by emailing info@integritysystems.com.au if assistance is required. The Customer Service Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 7pm (AEST) and on weekends from 9am to 5pm (AEST).

The LPA program is delivered by Integrity Systems Company (ISC), a subsidiary of Meat & Livestock Australia. During the past 18 months, ISC has worked closely with the wider red meat industry to ensure the new AWMP requirement provides information about the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines and how practices can be implemented on-farm to ensure standards are being achieved.

For more information, visit the ISC website for more AWMP information and guidance materials. This new video also includes instructions on how to complete an AWMP.

Scan this QR code to watch the video:

Source: MLA Integrity Systems Company