Publication of the updated Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock version 3.3

Attention

• All

Purpose

To advise all stakeholders that the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has published the updated Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock (ASEL) version 3.3.

Key points

• The current ASEL version, ASEL 3.3, is available at the department's ASEL webpage.
• ASEL 3.3 implements changes to maintain or improve animal health and welfare outcomes, update definitions, and improve clarity and usability of the standards.
  • Details of the specific amendments made in this update are available at the ASEL updates webpage.
• The majority of the amendments will commence on 30 November 2023. Seven amendments will commence in 2024 and will be implemented in a stepped manner as they require additional time for effective implementation.
• From 26 June to 4 August 2023, the department undertook 6 weeks of public consultation on the amendments following engagement with, and feedback from internal and external stakeholders.
  • Thirty-three submissions were received and all submissions were considered when finalising ASEL version 3.3.
  • Submissions, where permission to publish was provided, can be read on Have Your Say.
  • A thematic summary of feedback and the department's response has also been published and is available at the ASEL updates webpage.
• Feedback or questions on any matters relating to the ASEL can be sent to ASELReview@aff.gov.au. Emerging or more complex matters will be recorded and considered in future ASEL updates.

Background

• The department has committed to undertaking regular, consultative, user-centric updates and reviews of ASEL, as recommended in the 2018 Review of Regulatory Capability of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources in the Regulation of Live Animal Exports (Moss Review).
• The 2023 ASEL update addressed matters raised by stakeholders relating to the export of livestock by sea and by air and incorporated analysis of voyage reports, review of scientific literature and internal and external consultation.
• Please refer to EAN 2023-07 for a list of matters considered in the 2023 ASEL update.
• The department is also in the process of updating the ASEL rejection criteria guidelines to improve consistency in the application of ASEL standards.