FREPA

THESE STANDARDS WERE FORMED TO CREATE A
NON-STRESSFUL ENVIRONMENT FOR THE BIRDS.

1. When brooding is completed, in accordance with the current edition of the animal welfare code for poultry, which is approved for use in each State and Territory, birds must have easy access to an area on which to range during daylight hours.

2. The land where birds are permitted to range must have shade, shelter and palatable vegetation.

3. The range area must be capable of continued production of vegetation.

4. Birds must have access to clean, dry food and fresh water, in accordance with the current edition of the Animal Welfare Code for Poultry, which is approved in each State and Territory.

5. The stocking density in a shed must not exceed 28kg of live birds per square metre of floor space, unless there is mechanical ventilation, where it should not exceed 30kg of live birds per square metre.

6. Natural foods only are permitted with the addition of vitamins and minerals as required for the birds’ welfare.

7. Only under veterinary direction are therapeutic antibiotics permitted.
Treated birds must not be sold as Free Range.

8. Growth promoting hormones and growth promoting antibiotics are not permitted. Coccidiostats may be used under veterinary direction if Coccidiosis is regarded as a welfare issue.

9. Bill trimming is not permitted except under veterinary advice and in line with the current edition of the Animal Welfare Code for Poultry, which is approved in each State and Territory.
10. A reasonable attempt must be made to protect birds from predators at all times.

11. Housing, equipment, ventilation, temperature and health practices must be in accordance with the current edition of the Animal Welfare Code which is approved in each State and Territory.

12. Slaughtering must comply with the current Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals, Livestock and Poultry and Slaughtering Establishments [Abattoirs, Slaughterhouses and Knackeries].

13. All birds are to be transported in accordance with the Land Transport Code.

14. All birds are to be vaccinated in accordance with the current legislation approved in each State and Territory.

15. All farms must comply with appropriate sections of the National Farm Biosecurity Manual – Poultry Production (DAFF, 2009).

16. The Board, may, at its discretion, allow a producer to deviate from the above standards, for an agreed time period, in the interest of research which is supervised by a reputable scientific organisation and reported to the Board at agreed dates.

Notes 1
The maximum recommended stocking densities for ducks according to housing type under good management conditions is :-

In Confinement.

Ducklings –     to 10 days              50    birds/M²
Ducklings –     at 8 weeks             8     birds/ M²
Breeders                                           5     birds/ M²

In Runs

Ducklings –     at 8 weeks            5000 birds/M²
Breeders                                         4000 birds/M².

Lighter densities may be necessary for heavier breeds such as muscovies.

Notes 2
Care must be taken in catching ducks to avoid creating panic and subsequent injury or smothering of the birds. The proper handling of ducks requires special skill, and should be undertaken only by competent persons who have been appropriately trained. It should be carried out quietly and confidently, exercising care to avoid unnecessary struggling which cold bruise or otherwise injure the ducks. In hot weather, handling or movement of the ducks should be carried out during the coolest part of the day. Day old and young ducklings should be picked up bodily in the palm of the hand or if handling groups by the neck. Older ducks should be lifted by the neck or wings and they should be supported by taking the weight of the bird by a hand placed under its body, or by holding the bird with a hand on either side of its body with the wings in the closed position. Once sufficiently developed, lifting by the wings is the best method, providing support is given under the body. Ducks must not be lifted by single wing. Ducks must never be held or lifted by the legs.

Notes 3
Bill trimming should only be carried out only when it is essential to reduce damage and suffering in the flock. Only a skilled operator must carry it out, and only the rim at the front of the upper bill should be removed. The procedure should be carried out before the birds leave the brooder or rearing accommodation.

Standards available for download by clicking here.