New regulations to help ensure cattle welfare

Tasmania has new animal welfare regulations in place to ensure the ongoing welfare of cattle in the state. 

The Animal Welfare (Cattle) Regulations 2023​ are based on the nationally endorsed Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines – Cattle with two minor amendments for Tasmania. 

The two amendments prohibit anyone from dropping, striking, punching or kicking cattle under any circumstances, and removes the section on lay people spaying cattle. This section is not appropriate for inclusion in Tasmania’s regulations as this procedure can only be performed in Tasmania by a registered veterinary surgeon.

Consultation was undertaken at both a national and local level. Tasmania’s Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, which includes representation from the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association and RSPCA Tasmania, provided advice.