Summary
The authors describe the development of an animal welfare component of a quality assurance (QA) programme for the land transportation of livestock in Australia. Relationships among animal welfare practices on farms, during transport and at destinations require an approach that covers the entire production chain. The need for QA programmes includes increased awareness in the transport industry that animal welfare is an issue that engages the broader community and recognition that contentious welfare standards are discussed in the public domain and that public attitudes influence animal welfare standards. Three booklets have been produced that cover animal welfare issues in transport for the major commercial livestock species. Strategies for implementation of QA in industry have also been developed. The welfare standards have been incorporated into the transport industry's QA programme. QA programmes need to be acceptable to the community, be able to meet all customers' requirements and demonstrate to government authorities that they provide appropriate confidence that animal welfare standards have been met. The full impact of QA programmes will be fully appreciated when their ability to deliver comprehensive benefits and continual improvements in animal welfare has been evaluated.