New Tool Enhances Animal Welfare Transparency for Australian Red Meat Producers

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 (AWMP) is now an integral part of the Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) accreditation. As part of this update, a new tool is available within LPA accounts, designed to assist producers in creating and submitting a plan tailored to their operations.

This innovative tool guides producers through the AWMP process by asking questions specific to the species they raise, aligning with the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines. MLA Integrity Systems Company emphasizes that the inclusion of the AWMP within the LPA accreditation signifies a broader endeavor to enhance transparency and build trust in Australia’s animal welfare practices.

According to the company, this tool not only allows producers to validate their commitment to animal welfare but also showcases evidence of effective on-farm management practices leading to high animal welfare outcomes. This bolsters opportunities for exports and adds value across the supply chain.

Jo Quigley, CEO of Integrity Systems Company, stated, “Animal welfare is a cornerstone of the LPA program. Our industry’s ongoing commitment to the humane treatment of livestock sets us apart globally.”

Quigley stressed that by developing an AWMP, producers will gain insights into the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines while demonstrating compliance with best practices on their farms.

“The AWMP is a self-assessment tool with a series of questions that producers can answer to illustrate their adherence to relevant animal welfare standards,” she explained. “Providing evidence of high animal welfare is crucial for both education and assurance to domestic and international consumers.”

A Producer’s Perspective

Sam White, a sixth-generation farmer from Bald Blair Angus in Guyra, NSW, views a strong focus on animal welfare as essential to modern farming. “Expectations have evolved,” he noted. “The argument of ‘we didn’t do it that way before’ no longer holds weight in today’s market.”

White emphasized, “Documenting and actively showing high levels of animal welfare through the LPA is a defining factor for Australia. It reassures consumers that livestock is treated ethically.”

He added, “In order to maintain a profitable and ethical production process, we must utilize the tools available to streamline our operations.”

AWMP Tool Now Available

The AWMP tool is accessible within LPA accounts. Producers are encouraged to complete their AWMP during accreditation, reaccreditation, or any time they choose. A transition period has been established to support producers with this new requirement, with full implementation required by September 1, 2025. After this date, a completed AWMP will be mandatory for LPA audits, providing a 30-day window for submission if necessary.

Customer Support Available

For any assistance, the Integrity Systems Company Customer Service team is available seven days a week at 1800 683 111 or via email at info@integritysystems.com.au. Customer support is open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 7 pm (AEST) and weekends from 9 am to 5 pm (AEST).

The LPA program, managed by Integrity Systems Company (ISC), a subsidiary of Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), has undergone extensive collaboration with the red meat industry over the past 18 months to ensure the AWMP requirement effectively communicates standards and practices for animal welfare on farms.

For further details, please visit the ISC website for additional resources and support on the AWMP. You can also view a helpful video tutorial on how to create an AWMP.

Scan this QR code to watch the video:

Source: MLA Integrity Systems Company