A statement issued by the department says the decision was made in accordance with the requirements of the Australian Meat and Livestock Industry Act 1997.
“(It) has taken action against this company in the best interests of the industry and for the protection of Australia’s high standards of animal welfare and health,” the statement reads.
“It is the responsibility of each exporter to ensure it meets the clear requirements under the legislation that governs the export of livestock. These are set out in section 23 of the Act. Importantly, this includes providing complete, accurate information to the regulator as to how regulatory standards and licence conditions will be met and have been met.
“Failure to meet these requirements significantly undermines the legislative regime and, in turn, compromises the ability of the industry to export livestock in a manner that ensures the health and welfare of livestock.
“Cancellation of licence is a serious step and is not one taken lightly. The department is satisfied that this is the most appropriate response.
The department says it will not provide further comment on this matter at this stage.
“The Australian Government supports a sustainable livestock trade and expects exporters to meet their animal health and welfare responsibilities,” the statement reads.
“The department is implementing a series of changes to improve the sustainability of the trade with improved animal welfare outcomes. This includes those changes recommended by Dr Michael McCarthy in his review of the conditions for the export of sheep to the Middle East during the northern hemisphere summer.
“The department stands ready to consider applications from exporters that meet the animal health and welfare standards required by the legislation.”
