Better welfare for layer hens and meat chickens

Finally, after years of campaigning to see the end of caged layer hens, on 13 July 2023 all of Australia’s Agriculture Ministers agreed to implement the national Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry – which includes a phase out date for barren battery cages - no later than 2036.

Over two years has passed, and these standards have still not been legislated in Queensland. If hens are to be freed from these cages, the new standards must be included in our animal protection legislation in Queensland. We continue to work closely with the state government to gain this commitment to legislate and to consider an earlier phase out date for battery cages.

You can help by ensuring you’re buying cage-free eggs and by contacting your local MP or the Minister for Primary Industries to let them know you want to see Queensland expedite the phase out of battery cages.

Take action today

Chickens raised for their meat face a number of serious animal welfare issues:

• The rapid growth of genetically selected meat chicken breeds to grow very fast, resulting in serious health and welfare issues.
• High stocking densities of chickens indoors, potentially limiting their ability to easily move and perform natural behaviours.
• Indoor housing welfare issues such as inadequate ventilation and lighting.
• Poor quality outdoor environments where provided, without adequate shelter and palatable vegetation.
• Stress and risk of injury from euthanasia methods, catching, transport, and pre-slaughter stunning methods.

What needs to change