There are several key principles that must be considered when constructing a new, or expanding an existing, meat chicken operation in Western Australia
Design considerations
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Community amenity. There is a separation distance calculation specific to meat chicken operations that should be used to determine the separation distance required between the operation and the nearest sensitive receptors.
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Surface water protection. For indoor operations this is achieved by catching and containing wastewater from the operation, normally through the use of drains and ponds.
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Groundwater protection. For indoor operations, constructing an impermeable liner under infrastructure is the most effective way to protect groundwater.
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Clearing. If clearing is necessary in establishing or expanding a cattle feedlot, please visit the WA State Government website [1] for more information.
Regulatory obligations
- Meat chicken operations of any size need to seek planning approval through their Shire/City. To understand the requirements of planning approval for your shire, it is recommended that you speak to the Planning Officer (or CEO) as early as possible.
Industry guidelines and additional resources
Guidelines that should be considered when you are planning to establish or expand a chicken meat operation include:
- Planning and environment guideline for establishing meat chicken farms: Guide 1 – Assessment guide (AgriFutures Chicken Meat) [2]
- Planning and environment guideline for establishing meat chicken farms: Guide 2 – Applicant guide (AgriFutures Chicken Meat) [3]
- National Animal Welfare Standards for the Chicken Meat Industry (AgriFutures Chicken Meat) [4]
- National Animal Welfare Standard for the Chicken Meat Industry – Guidance (AgriFutures Chicken Meat) [5]
- Industry best management practice welfare manual (AgriFutures Chicken Meat) [6]
- ABD Guideline: How to Prepare a Solid Waste Management Plan [7]
- ABD Guideline: Land Application of Solid Animal By-Products [8]
Other resources that can assist include:
Key contacts
The following are valuable points of contact within the meat chicken industry:
- Australian Chicken Meat Federation [11] - Contact email [12]
- Australian Chicken Growers’ Council [13]
- Poultry Hub Australia [14]
For further information or advice, please contact Agribusiness Development at agribusiness@dpird.wa.gov.au [15]
