Live Animal Export Prohibition (Ending Cruelty) 2020

# Live Animal Export Prohibition (Ending Cruelty) Bill 2020 ## What it does This bill stops Australia from exporting live animals to be slaughtered overseas. From 1 July 2023, no new export licences for livestock destined for slaughter will be issued. Until that date, exporters must make genuine efforts to ensure animals are treated well in their destination countries and report any evidence of mistreatment within 14 days. ## Why it matters Australia currently exports hundreds of thousands of live animals annually to countries with minimal animal welfare standards. This bill addresses concerns about the suffering these animals endure during transport and after arrival—issues that have drawn sustained criticism from animal welfare advocates and the public. ## Key details - **Cut-off date**: 1 July 2023 — after this, export licences for livestock destined for slaughter cannot be granted - **Interim requirements**: Until the ban takes effect, exporters must actively ensure animals are "treated satisfactorily" abroad and notify authorities within 14 days if they learn of mistreatment - **Who's affected**: Livestock exporters, meat and livestock industry operators, and farms currently involved in live animal exports

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament