Mulesing legislation hangs in the balance

NEW SOUTH WALES – Woolgrowers have been urged to have their say on proposed amendments to the POCTA (Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) Act in New South Wales, as the state’s Legislative Council looks to fast-track new laws that could see pain relief become a mandatory requirement of farmers later this year, with the view to banning mulesing outright by 2023.

Since 2016, Mark Pearson of the Council has campaigned to protect the welfare of Australia’s sheep, but to no avail. Pressing the Council’s proposition once more, an Upper House committee inquiry has been launched looking at the POCTA Act; this, suggesting that an independent statutory body, the Independent Office of Animal Protection, be established to oversee the animal welfare framework.

NSW’s native wool growers have been asked to complete an online survey, stating where they stand on any of the proposed changes to the bill. A state-wide survey conducted last year indicated that 80 per cent of producers were in favour of mandating pain relief prior to mulesing. Whether they’re on-board with banning the practice outright is another matter.