A ban on live cattle exports to Indonesia in 2011 was a turning point for the industry. While there were already moves underway to improve animal welfare in overseas market, it created an overnight shift from ‘continuous, steady improvement’ to simply making it happen.

The Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS) was developed and implemented in just two months from the initial ban, and has stood the test of time. It means Australian exporters are now responsible for animal welfare not only in Australia and on ships, but also in overseas ports, feedlots and abattoirs.

This infographic outlines some of the significant improvements in animal welfare over a decade of change in the industry.