Better welfare for factory-farmed animals is better for all

We have all seen the news reports covering the horrors of pigs in factory farming, so we know the current regulatory system is failing.

And it’s not just pigs. Almost all of the animals raised for food in South Australia have suffered at the hands of industrial farming.

The obvious question is “How was this situation allowed to happen?” and “Why are our laws failing animals?”

It’s happening because animal welfare is regulated by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions. These industries are the very ones that profit from animals being turned into commodities for profit. This is a conflict of interest where animals’ interests take a backseat to profits.

South Australians will never see better welfare standards for animals without an Independent Office for Animal Protection, one that is separate from the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.

An Independent Office for Animal Protection would:

• Monitor compliance with animal welfare laws, including oversight of industries like agriculture and racing, with the power to investigate and report.
• Conduct inquiries into the adequacy of animal welfare laws and initiate required systemic reforms, and
• Ensure transparency and accountability.