THESE STANDARDS WERE FORMED TO CREATE A
NON-STRESSFUL ENVIRONMENT FOR THE BIRDS
1. When fully feathered, in accordance with the current edition of the appropriate State Animal Welfare Code, 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 appropriate State Animal Welfare Code.
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 when it must not exceed 30kg of live birds per square metre of floor space.
6. Continuous dim lighting may be used when it benefits the welfare of the birds.
7. Natural foods only are permitted with the addition of vitamins and minerals as required for the birds’ welfare.
8. That only under veterinary direction are therapeutic antibiotics permitted.
Treated birds must not be sold as Free Range.
9. That 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.
10. Beak trimming, toe trimming, de-snooding or any other mutilation is not permitted.
11. A reasonable attempt must be made to protect birds from predators at all times.
12. Housing, equipment, ventilation, temperature and health practices must be in accordance with the appropriate State Animal Welfare Code.
13. 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].
14. All birds are to be transported in accordance with the Land Transport Code.
15. All birds are to be vaccinated in accordance with the appropriate State livestock control Act.
16. All farms must comply with appropriate sections of the National Farm Biosecurity Manual – Poultry Production.
17. 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.
Standards available for download by clicking here