The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources is setting up a technical advisory committee to conduct the review and is seeking applications.

Deputy Secretary Malcolm Thompson said ASEL was an important component of Australia’s livestock export system, setting the standards of health and welfare that exporters must meet during the transport of Australian livestock overseas. 

“The committee we’re establishing will look at the standards for the export of livestock to ensure they are fit for purpose and take into account the latest animal health and welfare scientific information and advice,” Mr Thompson said.

“This technical committee will be made up of an independent chair and experts in animal health and welfare, regulatory design and the livestock industry.”

Mr Thompson said members would be chosen for their skills, experience and qualifications.

“This is about getting the science right behind any proposed updates to the standards – there will be a number of opportunities for stakeholders to contribute to the standards throughout the review process,” he said.

He said the plan was to appoint an independent chairperson and four committee members for a period of two years, starting in late September.

“It is anticipated that committee members will need to be available for 30 to 80 days over a year to undertake committee duties.”