VFF urges government to apply the brakes on cage phaseout

WITH eggs off the boil due to bird flu outbreaks in northern Victoria, the farmer’s peak body is calling on governments to apply the brakes to the phaseout of conventional cages.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is urging a pause to the proposed national phaseout of conventional cages by 2036 until a reliable supply of eggs to the community and businesses can be guaranteed.

VFF egg group president Meg Parkinson said ongoing impacts of avian influenza were severely hampering the supply of eggs to consumers and all forms of egg production must be utilised to maintain future supply.

“Recurring avian influenza outbreaks has demonstrated the need for a robust and resilient egg industry.

“We need a supply chain that is designed with consumers in mind and their needs.

“This includes eggs from all production systems such as barn laid, cage and free range, and enables consumers to choose how their eggs are produced and at the same time ensuring supply of eggs is as resilient as possible.”

The VFF continues to advocate that caged egg systems provide a safer internal environment, significantly reducing the risk of avian influenza transmission through contact with wild birds, and that the impending phaseout of conventional cages, coupled with a lack of clear transition planning from governments, has created uncertainty within the industry.

Ms Parkinson said Australian egg farmers invest considerably in strict biosecurity protocols and uphold world-leading animal welfare standards, ensuring consumers have access to the best possible eggs.

“We’re calling for the state and federal governments to pause the proposed national phaseout of conventional cages. If not, future shortages will also drive-up egg prices, placing additional financial strain on Australian families.”

The VFF is urging governments to work closely with industry to develop a practical transition plan that ensures egg supply remains stable and affordable for all Australians.

“Until such a plan is in place, the proposed phaseout must be paused to avoid unintended consequences for food security and local farmers.”