The Australian Alliance for Animals has welcomed the release of the provisional text of the Australia–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), confirming a significant step forward for animal welfare on the global stage.
The Agreement explicitly recognises that animals are sentient beings and acknowledges the link between improved animal welfare and sustainable food production systems. This marks only the second time Australia has secured such recognition in a trade agreement, following the UK FTA signed in 2021.
Australian Alliance for Animals Policy Director Dr Jed Goodfellow said the inclusion sends a powerful signal about the growing international importance of animal welfare.
“This is a highly positive and meaningful outcome. Recognising animal sentience in a major trade agreement with the European Union reinforces that animal welfare is not a peripheral issue—it is central to modern, sustainable food systems and to trade and market access,” Dr Goodfellow said.
The Agreement also establishes a framework for ongoing cooperation between Australia and the EU to improve animal welfare practices, including in farming, transport and slaughter, and to support the development of international standards.
“This creates a platform for Australia to work alongside a global leader like the EU to lift animal welfare standards over time. It reflects a shared commitment to continuous improvement and evidence-based policy,” he said.
The Alliance noted that embedding animal welfare in trade agreements helps drive progress beyond national borders, encouraging higher standards and greater transparency across global supply chains.
“We commend the Australian Government and negotiators for securing this outcome. It demonstrates how trade policy can be leveraged to deliver positive outcomes for animals, while supporting sustainable and resilient agricultural systems,” Dr Goodfellow said.
The Alliance looks forward to continued leadership from Australia in embedding animal welfare in future trade agreements.
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Dr Jed Goodfellow leads the Alliance’s law and policy reform agenda. He has over 20 years’ experience in animal welfare law, policy and advocacy. He completed his PhD in animal welfare regulation in 2015.
About the Australian Alliance for Animals
The Australian Alliance for Animals is a national charity leading a strategic alliance of Australia’s key animal protection organisations with a combined supporter base of over 2 million people. Core members include Animals Australia, Humane World for Animals Australia, World Animal Protection Australia, Compassion in World Farming, FOUR PAWS Australia, and Voiceless, the animal protection institute. Website: www.allianceforanimals.org.au
