V.ISC.2102 - Summary of findings from the Modernisation of Saleyard Integrity Assurance Project

Summary

Integrity Systems Company engaged a consultant to look at the modernisation of saleyard integrity assurance. The project conducted a review of existing standards, rules, guidelines and regulations and consulted with saleyard staff and the community to establish the appetite for this type of assurance program modernisation.

Principles for a modernised saleyard integrity assurance program were suggested for consideration by ISC.

Objectives

1. Produce new standards and rules which have been informed by the existing National Saleyard Quality Assurance (NSQA) program materials to minimise potential duplication.
2. Facilitate collaboration with a Saleyard Standards Working Group (SSWG) (incorporating key stakeholders) to formulate the outcomes and direction of the new standards and rules.
3. Produce a first draft of the standards and rules for the SSWG and Integrity Systems Company to review and a final draft for acceptance at both the SAFEMEAT Advisory Group and Partners.
4. Provide a recommended timeline for the Australian Livestock Markets Association (ALMA) to implement the new program nationally and a management process for controlling the ongoing administration of the program.

Key findings

The consultation revealed a number of opportunities and challenges for any saleyard integrity program developed, challenges in particular related to:
1. the applicability of any integrity assurance approach to solely saleyard operators
2. the approach to verification and therefore the likelihood of broad adoption by saleyard operators and acceptance by the community, and
3. how compliance requirements (legislation or regulation) will be accommodated under a modernised saleyard integrity assurance approach.
Principles were developed that any approach to saleyard integrity assurance should encompass and included:
• Physical environment (facilities, infrastructure and equipment).
• Animal health and welfare.
• Effective biosecurity.
• Governance and operations (adherence to law and management system).
• Alignment to industry integrity programs and incident reporting.
• Responsibilities, liabilities and stakeholder collaboration.
• Personnel and induction.
Benefits and challenges with a modernised program were identified.

Benefits to industry

This research was important to get a full picture of the gaps and opportunities for a proposed Saleyard Integrity Assurance Program. The research also identified key principles for a modernised saleyard integrity assurance program that have been provided to the saleyard sector in their consideration of an approach to saleyard integrity assurance.

MLA action

These principles have been provided to the saleyard sector in their consideration of an approach to saleyard integrity assurance.

Future research

No future research was being considered at the time of completion.