V.ISC.2215 - LPA Program Rules Update

Summary

This project conducted a review of the LPA Program Rules and developed a modernised set of rules for the administration of the LPA Program that satisfies the current and future LPA requirements, whilst supporting the broader red meat integrity system strategic direction.

Objectives

The aim of the engagement was to produce a modernised version of the LPA Program Rules which enhanced, streamlined, and clarified the administration of the LPA Program and makes provisions for the initiatives outlined in the LPA Future State Roadmap.

The project also made provisions for the expanded use of the eNVD platform to communicate additional livestock attributes through the supply chain; enhanced the accreditation process; clarified sanctions and audit processes; added auditor conflict of interest requirements; and involved consultant with industry to ensure they were fit for purpose.

Key findings

• The LPA Program Rules needed to be scalable and flexible to meet the changing assurance needs of industry.
• Uplift and strengthen the privacy, confidentiality and data sharing requirements in line with current legal requirements.
• Inclusion of additional verification methods and the ability to set up recognitions with other compliance programs to enable greater collaboration and reduces audit burden on industry.

Benefits to industry

This review and update of the LPA Program Rules increases the efficiency of program administration including the audit and nonconformity management processes. It will also allow the LPA accreditation process to be clearer and easier to understand for producers and bolster the integrity and awareness in information provided during accreditation. This project also enhances the agility of adding new declarations to eNVDs and increase the rigor of the program to better support compliance in areas of food safety, biosecurity and animal welfare which in turn will support and strengthen the integrity of the red meat systems. The addition of voluntary modules also provides the mechanism for more elements to be easily added into LPA and greater assurance on new elements provided such as sustainability.

MLA action

Implementation of the new LPA Program Rules is now required with updates to the LPA Database, training, education and awareness for producers on changes to occur.