The well-being of each animal matters. If we can reduce the suffering of animals in factory farms*, we should. We're calling for the inclusion of Animal Welfare as a consideration in planning legislation.

A recent planning application in the Golden Plains Shire (application P22022) drew 26 objections on the basis of animal welfare and human health concerns but these objections were not followed up with an enquiry to Animal Welfare Victoria throughout the planning assessment stage, despite the imminent legislation of significantly improved standards for Poultry.

The benefits of bringing animal welfare considerations into planning legislation include:

• Evidence of public interest in animal welfare in farming practice.
• Reducing the risk to animals by preemptively guiding planning applicants.
• Early use of standards provides greater surety in an industry of concealed practice.
• Communication of known standards will benefit both a planning applicant and animals.
• Improved transparency and trust between services.
• A chance to reduce significant suffering in animals.

*The AJP does not endorse factory farming. Our Farming Policy states "we will prioritise the phase-out of factory farming." Addressing planning is one of many steps it's going to take to phase out factory farms in Australia.

Image credit: Tamara Kenneally, tamarakenneallyphotography.com