The Andrews Labor Government has appointed a group of animal industry and welfare specialists with a broad range of experience to provide advice on animal welfare matters across the state.
The new Animal Welfare Advisory Committee is meeting today to discuss a work plan to support the Minister for Agriculture better meet community expectations on a range of animal welfare issues.
The make-up of the committee consists of six women and three men:
- Mrs Carmel Morfuni (Independent Chair) – Barrister at Law, nationally accredited mediator.
- Dr David Beggs – veterinarian with livestock, animal science and public policy expertise.
- Ms Glenys Oogjes – extensive animal welfare, behaviour and science expertise, Executive Director of Animals Australia.
- Prof Paul Hemsworth – prominent animal welfare scientist, Director and Professor of the Animal Welfare Science Centre.
- Dr Michelle Ledger - veterinarian with equine and animal ethics expertise, Veterinary Services and Equine Welfare Manager at Racing Victoria.
- Dr Patricia Mitchell – agricultural scientist with commercial animal industries and livestock expertise, Research & Innovation Manager at Australian Pork Limited.
- Dr Elizabeth Walker – veterinarian with animal welfare and domestic animal expertise, Chief Executive Officer of RSPCA Victoria.
- Dr Rebecca Wilcox – veterinarian with wildlife and animal science and research expertise, Senior Animal Welfare Officer at RMIT.
- Dr Scott Williams – private veterinary consultant with livestock and research expertise.
The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee is a non-statutory expert committee constituted by the Minister for Agriculture to provide advice on animal welfare related issues.
Members are appointed based on expertise in animal welfare and experience across a range of animal species and industries.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee’s role has been revised to help provide strategic advice on improving animal welfare in Victoria.”
“The committee has a great range of practical experience in managing welfare issues across the animal industries.”
“I think this government has demonstrated a strong desire to raise the bar when it comes to animal welfare and I need the best expert advice possible to help me implement improvements.”
Reviewed 10 February 2021