Saddle up for horse welfare

The Hon David Littleproud MP
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia

The Federal Government is asking the states and territories to get behind the thoroughbred horse industry in the wake of the thoroughbred welfare initiative report, The Most Important Participant: A Framework for Thoroughbred Welfare.

The Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud welcomed the report which recommended both levels of government work together to develop a national thoroughbred register, and on a range of related matters.

“Earlier this month the Federal Government put $1.1 million on the table for the establishment of a national traceability register,” Minister Littleproud said.

“We have shown the colour of our money and want the states and territories to do the same.

“While the Federal Government has an important leadership role to play, domestic animal welfare and traceability is the responsibility of the states and territories.

“The comprehensive report produced by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Welfare Working Group and chaired by the Hon Dr Denis Napthine has 46 recommendations.

“The recommendations provide a national approach to provide care to our thoroughbred racehorses from birth to the end of their lives.

“There is a role for governments – I encourage the states and territories to expedite work with the Federal Government in the development of national animal welfare standards for all horses.

“I applaud the thoroughbred racing industry for its work in reviewing horse welfare and want to let them know of the Federal Government’s commitment to taking their concerns seriously.

‘The industry wants both levels of government to pick up the pace but it is important that all relevant scientific practices and views of stakeholders are considered in the development of welfare standards and traceability arrangements.

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