The Australian meat processing industry is committed to achieving the highest level of animal welfare. It operates under strict state and federal animal welfare regulations which are verified by Commonwealth and State inspectors and commercial auditors on behalf of customers. 

The National Animal Welfare Standards at Livestock Processing Establishments ('the Standards') were developed to help fulfil the expectations of both the Australian meat processing industry and the community of high levels of quality assurance for the management of livestock at Australian livestock processing establishments. As part of the Standards meat processors are required to ensure personnel are trained and competent when handling livestock. The Australian meat processing industry has developed the Animal Welfare Officer Skill Set to achieve world's best practice in animal welfare standards.