Question regarding the presence and authority of DPIRD inspectors during cattle loading at Fremantle port in high temperatures, and the criteria used to assess heat stress. The Minister confirms DPIRD has the power to prevent or suspend transport/loading but were not present at the specific loadings mentioned.

AnsweredQoN 94Legislative Council
Asked
10 March 2026
Portfolio
Agriculture and Food

QuestionView source ↗

Cattle transport—Fremantle port
94. Hon Amanda Dorn to
the Minister for Agriculture and Food:
I refer to cattle
loaded at Fremantle port on 2 January and 21 January 2026 in
temperatures recorded at 32 degrees and 41 degrees Celsius.
(1) Were Department of Primary Industries
and Regional Development inspectors present during cattle transport and ship loading?
(2) What criteria do DPIRD inspectors use
to determine heat stress in these conditions?
(3) Do DPIRD inspectors or other
authorities have power to prevent or suspend any element of the transport
and/or loading process when heat stress is identified?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the
honourable member for some notice of the question.
(1) No. The Australian Government
regulates the export of livestock from Australian ports, including requirements
for the presence of accredited veterinarians for ensuring health and welfare of
livestock before and during export.
(2) Not applicable.
(3) Yes.

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