FREPA

THESE STANDARDS WERE FORMED TO CREATE A
NON-STRESSFUL ENVIRONMENT FOR THE BIRDS

1. When brooding is completed, in accordance with the current edition of the animal welfare code for poultry which is approved in each State and Territory, birds must have easy access to an area on which to range during daylight hours.

2. The land where birds are permitted to range must have shade, shelter and palatable vegetation.

3. The range area must be capable of continued production of vegetation.

4. Birds must have access to clean, dry food and fresh water, in accordance with the current edition of the animal welfare code for poultry which is approved in each State and Territory

5. The stocking density in a shed must not exceed 28kgs of live birds per square metre of floor space, unless there is mechanical ventilation where it should not exceed 30kg of live birds per square metre of floor space.

6. Natural foods only are permitted with the addition of vitamins and minerals as required for the birds’ welfare.

7. Only under veterinary direction are therapeutic antibiotics permitted. Treated birds must not be sold as Free Range.

8. That Growth promoting hormones and growth promoting antibiotics are not permitted. Coccidiostst’s may be used under Veterinary direction if Coccidiosis is regarded as a welfare issue.

9. Beak trimming, and de-snooding and toe trimming are not permitted except under veterinary advice and in line with the current edition of the animal welfare code for poultry which is approved in each State and Territory. Laser beak trimming is advisable if this is required.

10. A reasonable attempt must be made to protect birds from predators at all times.

11. Housing, equipment, ventilation, temperature and health practices must be in accordance with the current edition of the animal welfare code for poultry which is approved in each State and Territory

12.Slaughtering must comply with the current Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals, Livestock and Poultry and Slaughtering Establishments [Abattoirs, Slaughterhouses and Knackeries].

13. All birds are to be transported in accordance with the Land Transport Code.

14. All birds are to be vaccinated in accordance with the current legislation approved in each State and Territory

15. All farms must comply with appropriate sections of the Poultry Industry Biosecurity Code of Practice.

16. The Board, may at its discretion, allow a producer to deviate from the above standards, for an agreed time period, in the interest of research which is supervised by a reputable scientific organisation and reported to the Board at agreed dates.

As at 18 November 2009