The RSPCA has commended the Australian Meat Industry Council for the inclusion of mandatory video surveillance into the updated Australian Livestock Processing Industry Animal Welfare Certification System (AAWCS) in red meat processing facilities.
The RSPCA has long advocated for mandatory video surveillance to monitor and validate animal welfare practices in all abattoirs and processing facilities.
“It is positive news that we will have an industry standard that requires processing establishments to implement video surveillance systems into their operations to be certified,” RSPCA Australia chief executive officer Richard Mussell said.
“Video surveillance is an important way of increasing transparency when it comes to the welfare of these animals,” he said.
“The public will equally welcome the assurance animal welfare is being upheld in AAWCS certified red meat processing facilities.
“The updated inclusion of mandatory video surveillance requirements into the updated AAWCS go beyond the minimum regulatory requirements.
“There is an opportunity to integrate similar CCTV requirements in all abattoirs and processing establishments through the current review of the Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Processing Establishments.”
The RSPCA said incorporating CCTV into standards and guidelines mirrored growing community sentiment.
The RSPCA said it would continue to work with industry and government to ensure all animals in Australia, regardless of where they are processed, are afforded the same level of welfare protections.
