MEDIA RELEASE - New national accreditation scheme sets standard for animal welfare in livestock transport

A new national accreditation scheme for transporting livestock around Australia has been launched, setting a new benchmark for animal welfare, traceability, and biosecurity.

A new national accreditation scheme for transporting livestock around Australia has been launched, setting a new benchmark for animal welfare, traceability, and biosecurity. 

The CoRLink National Animal Welfare Accreditation Scheme (NAWA) streamlines and harmonises the legislation, codes of practice, and guidelines across all Australian States and Territories, creating a unified national framework for animal welfare compliance. 

Major livestock transporters have already signed on for the program, which was developed in consultation with regulatory bodies, animal welfare groups, major transport operators, industry leaders and associations. 

Graeme Hoare from Martins Stock Haulage, and the NAWA Chair, said it seeks to elevate animal welfare by bringing consistency, clarity, and accountability for everyone along the supply chain. 

“It also builds consumer and community confidence in the ethical treatment of livestock throughout the transport process and provides assurance to domestic and international markets on Australian livestock transport practices.” 

NAWA’s launch focuses on the delivery of a core module designed specifically for transport operators. Its emphasis on training and competency, chain of responsibility, and implementation of an animal welfare management system seeks to embed an ‘animal welfare first’ culture across transport operators and the rest of the supply chain. 

Animal-specific requirements include ensuring animals are fit for the intended journey, penned appropriately, and monitored during transport, as well as low-stress handling and journey management to stay within time off water and feed limits. The module also covers condition of vehicles and facilities for loading/unloading livestock, driver competency, and emergency response. 

“NAWA has been developed by industry for industry to make real change, improve animal welfare, and integrate seamlessly with existing and emerging accreditation frameworks used by producers, feedlots, saleyards, and processors to ensure consistency across the supply chain.” 

Every year, approximately 40 million sheep, cattle, and goats are transported in Australia, in addition to the sector supporting a workforce of more than 400,000 Australians directly and indirectly, including many in transport and logistics roles. 

“Beyond animal welfare, NAWA improves safety outcomes for transport operators and the community, while best practice strengthens credibility, business efficiency, and cost-effectiveness,” Mr Hoare said. 

Once a transport operator is NAWA accredited, accountability is maintained through audits, training, and traceability systems. A digital platform which includes AI has been developed to assist transport operators in their record-keeping, compliance, and business operations. 

“NAWA is the critical next step in ensuring that from paddock to plate, animal welfare comes first.” 

For more information and to apply for accreditation, click here. 

Media enquiries: Kylie Barron Adoni Media | kylie@adonimedia.com.au | 0438 493 114