Compulsory codes of practice for animal welfare

Compulsory codes of practice are rules that people must follow.

The maximum penalty for not complying with a provision of a compulsory code of practice is $48,390.00.

Compulsory codes of practice are contained in the Animal Care and Protection Regulation 2023 (the Regulation).

The compulsory codes in Queensland are:

• domestic fowl code of practice—Schedule 1 of the Regulation
• pigs code of practice—Schedule 2 of the Regulation
• sheep code of practice—Schedule 3 of the Regulation
• cattle code of practice—Schedule 4 of the Regulation
• livestock transport code of practice—Schedule 5 of the Regulation
• livestock at depots and saleyards code of practice—Schedule 6 of the Regulation
• dog breeding code of practice—Schedule 7 of the Regulation
• rodeos code of practice—Schedule 8 of the Regulation
• horses at livestock slaughter facilities code of practice—Schedule 8A of the Regulation.

The Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (scientific use code) is also compulsory. It is adopted as a compulsory code under section 91 of the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001. A penalty of up to $48,390.00 or 1 year imprisonment applies.

Failing to follow compulsory codes

A person who does not comply with a requirement of a compulsory code of practice commits an offence.

The maximum penalty for an individual is $48,390.00.

A person who breaches the scientific use code may be sentenced up to 1 year in prison.

For less serious breaches, a person may receive a:

• warning letter
• direction from inspectors to comply with a requirement of a code of practice.

If a person does not follow the direction, they can be prosecuted.