Victorian farmers demand government pause caged egg ban as bird flu cripples supply

Farmers are calling on the government to pause phasing out caged eggs to keep more cartons on shelves. But would Victorians really make the switch from free range?

Victorian farmers are calling for the government to pause its phase out of cages eggs to get more cartons in supermarkets. Picture: Australian Eggs

As Victorian farmers battle an outbreak of avian influenza that is crippling egg supplies the state’s largest farming agency has called for the government to “pause” its phase out of caged eggs.

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is calling for state and federal governments to halt the planned phase out that aims to see the end of all caged egg farming by 2026.

Victoria is facing an outbreak of avian influenza that is crippling egg supplies. Picture: Newswire

VFF Egg Group President Meg Parkinson said all forms of egg production needed to be utilised in the face of the devastating outbreak.

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

“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.”

State and federal governments are planning to phase out caged egg farming by 2026. Picture: Heidi Linehan

Ms Parkinson added that not pausing the phase out would hit people where it hurts the most, their back pocket.

“We’re calling for the state and federal governments to pause the proposed national phase-out of conventional cages,” she said.

“If not, future shortages will also drive-up egg prices, placing additional financial strain on Australian families.”

State and territory leaders endorsed the updated Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines in 2023 that put the planned phase out into action.

Originally published as Victorian farmers demand government pause caged egg ban as bird flu cripples supply