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 $46,440.00.

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.

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 $46,440.00 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 $46,440.00.

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.