In August 2000, ARMCANZ (Agriculture and Resource Management Council of Australia and New Zealand) made decisions on layer cage housing which were incorporated into the Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals - Domestic Poultry 4th Edition (The Code).
The Australian Egg Corporation, in conjunction with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI), has devised a checklist to help egg producers to determine if their layer cages comply with these new standards and to determine the number of hens that can be housed in their cages. The information in this document is based on the intent of The Code.
In essence, the 2001 Standard encompasses the previous 1995 Standard (the Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals - Domestic Poultry 3rd Edition, 1995) while increasing the space allowance for hens in cages. The 2001 Standard also establishes an economic life for cages of 20 years from the date the cages were commissioned. Cages commissioned prior to 1 January 2001 have until 1 January 2008 to meet the 1995 standards and may be stocked with a minimum space allowance per bird of 450 cm2 (3 or more fowls (< 2.4kg) per cage) for 20 years from the date they were commissioned or until 1 January 2008, whichever is the later. Cages commissioned after 1 January 2001 must immediately comply with the 1995 standards and must be stocked at 550 cm2.
These decisions have been endorsed by each State and Territory Government and are the basis to achieve improved hen welfare outcomes in Australia. Each State and Territory will need to implement any legislation which they consider supports key elements of the Code. As at May 2005, Queensland has done this by amending its Animal Care and Protection Regulations. Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory likewise have legislation in place, with other States yet to follow suit.
Please check with the relevant State/Territory Animal Welfare Unit/Bureau for clarification of how the 4th edition of the Code will be interpreted and applied in the applicable State or Territory. Contact details are provided in the appendix of checklist.
