Code of practice on kangaroo killing 'inadequately enforced'
Weaknesses in the enforcement of standards for the humane killing of kangaroos have been identified in a new report by THINKK, the UTS-based think tank for kangaroos.
fundamental problem is that government agencies do not regularly inspect carcasses at the point of kill. Without such inspections it is impossible for agencies to ensure compliance with the Code's conditions on killing dependent young and injured adult kangaroos.
"Government agencies need to allocate more resources for inspections of the industry, particularly of shooters. Video surveillance technology could be introduced to aid these inspections and improve reporting on the numbers of injured kangaroos."
The report also argues that enforcement by government agencies is undermined by a conflict of interest. Government agencies are responsible for both promoting the welfare of kangaroos and supporting the commercial kangaroo industry.
"To minimise conflicts of interest an independent department at the federal level or a number of independent departments at the state level should be established and given responsibility for enforcement as part of a wider reform of enforcement of animal cruelty laws," Ms Boom said.
"In addition, the regulations in some states, particularly Western Australia, need to be amended to ensure that the Code is enforceable against all parties involved in the commercial industries."
Provided by University of Technology, Sydney
