The Approved Farming Scheme currently includes only the intensive animal production systems, the ones where welfare issues are much more prominent. We have standards for pigs, layer hens, meat chickens and turkeys. While we have had many expressions of interest from beef cattle and sheep producers to join the Scheme, the extensive nature of these industries means that at present we do not have the resources to adequately monitor compliance.

Until such time as beef cattle can be included in the Approved Farming Scheme, RSPCA Australia has developed Beef cattle welfare: Our vision to encourage producers to improve on-farm practices that influence animal welfare.