Sustainability-related Regulations Database

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Animal Welfare Act 2002

Description: A short description of the legislation.

The objects of this Part are — (a) to promote and protect the welfare, safety and health of animals; and (b) to ensure animals are properly and humanely treated, cared for and managed.

Application to Australian agriculture: Where the legislation is applicable.

(2) Without limiting subsection (1), the regulations may provide for, authorise, prescribe, require, prohibit, restrict or otherwise regulate the following — (a) the treatment, care and handling of animals; (b) animal accommodation; (c) the transportation of animals; (d) the keeping of animals; (e) the husbandry of animals; (f) the identification of animals;

Compliance information: Often the evidence of compliance against a piece of legislation is that there is not a breach of the Act. Where appropriate, the developers of this database have listed evidence which could be used to show compliance if a breach was to be found. Many Best Management Practice (BMP) schemes and other certifications in Australian agriculture include this evidence for accreditation.

The following documentation/information is required to provide evidence of compliance.

A person must not be cruel to an animal. Penalty: Minimum — $2 000. Maximum — $50 000 and imprisonment for 5 years

Additional information: The entity this legislation originates from.

Western Australia Legislation →

Source documents: Links to the legislation documents.