You may need to comply with this code if you are a stock handler, including truck drivers, stockpersons, livestock agency staff, stock inspectors, producers, saleyard managers and staff, involved in the management of various species.
This code provides guidelines to ensure welfare for animals at saleyards. It applies to all ages and types of animals being sold, whether feral, kept commercially or kept as a hobby. The code outlines acceptable saleyard management practices, and encourages the considerate and efficient treatment and handling of all types of animals.
The code is not a comprehensive manual on how to care for animals at saleyards and does not provide detailed information on topics such as pen design.
Compliance with this code of practice is not mandatory. However, by complying with this code you can demonstrate that you have met your legal obligations. Proving that you have complied with this code can be used as a defence against a charge of cruelty or aggravated cruelty to animals.
