Australian Veterinary Association calls for mulesing phase-out

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has introduced a new policy advocating for the phase-out of mulesing, a surgical procedure involving live lamb cutting. The policy recommends that the Animal Welfare Task Group expedite a review of the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Sheep, specifically targeting chapters on mulesing and other surgical husbandry procedures.

The AVA suggests that the future of sheep welfare should focus on accelerated genetic selection for low-wrinkle sheep that are naturally resistant to flystrike, rather than relying on surgical intervention. This approach aims to transition the industry away from the practice through collaboration between government, veterinarians, and industry stakeholders.

Leading animal protection organizations, including Animals Australia, FOUR PAWS Australia, Humane World for Animals Australia, and the Australian Alliance for Animals, have welcomed the move. Advocates have called on the Federal Government and Agriculture Minister Julie Collins to establish a practical timeframe for the phase-out, describing the AVA's stance as a significant milestone in national sheep welfare reform.