Halal slaughtering refers to the Islamic method of slaughtering animals for human consumption in accordance with Islamic Shari’ah law. For meat to be considered halal, specific religious and ethical requirements must be followed during the slaughter process. The animal must be alive and healthy at the time of slaughter. The slaughter must be carried out by a competent Muslim who understands the requirements of halal slaughter. At the time of slaughter, the slaughterer must recite the Tasmiya (invocation of the name of Allah), usually by saying “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”. A very sharp knife must be used to make a swift and decisive cut to the throat of the animal, severing the jugular veins, carotid arteries, and windpipe. This method allows the blood to drain quickly from the body and minimises pain and suffering to the animal. Islamic dietary law requires that all flowing blood be drained from the carcass, as the consumption of blood is prohibited. Animals that die before slaughter, or those killed by strangulation, violent blows, or falls, are not considered halal. Halal slaughter must not take place in facilities where pigs are slaughtered or in areas where there is a risk of contamination from pork or other non-halal materials. Islam also emphasises animal welfare. Animals must be treated humanely before slaughter. They should be properly fed and given water, and they must not witness the slaughter of other animals. The knife used must be extremely sharp and appropriate for the size of the animal to ensure a quick and humane slaughter.
The registration of a Halal Slaughterman may be cancelled, and the individual may be barred from participating in any operations conducted by Australian International Halal certification organisation (AIHCO) under the following circumstances:

Disciplinary Action

  • If the individual ceases to be a Muslim.
  • If the individual fails to comply with the established guidelines of AIHCO regarding halal slaughtering procedures and the proper handling of halal meat.
  • If the individual commits a serious offence or violates important Islamic principles, such as theft, consumption of alcohol, adultery, or other major misconduct.
  • If the individual repeatedly fails to submit the required records of daily halal slaughter or production (including cartons or packages) to AIHCO.
  • If the individual fails to attend training sessions or meetings organised by AIHCO without a valid or acceptable reason.
  • If the individual is found to have engaged in actions or made statements that may damage the reputation or integrity of AIHCO.

Requirements and Responsibilities of Halal Slaughtermen

  • All halal slaughtermen must be practising Muslims of good character and reputation. They must be legally permitted to work in Australia and be known to at least two
    respected members of the Muslim community in Australia who are willing to provide written references.
  • All halal slaughtermen must be formally appointed by Australian International Halal Certification Organisation (AIHCO) and must obtain an Identity Card (I.D. Card) issued by AUS-MEAT Limited. The I.D. Card must be carried at all times while performing halal slaughter duties.
  • The slaughterman’s I.D. Card confirms that the individual is recognised and approved to be considered for employment by an abattoir or meat processing facility nominated by AIHCO. However, if an AIHCO-approved slaughterman wishes to seek employment in a different state, prior approval from AIHCO is required. Similarly, any transfer to another abattoir within the same state must also receive prior approval from AIHCO.
  • AIHCO does not provide employment to slaughtermen. The AIHCO I.D. Card does not constitute a guarantee, licence, or entitlement to employment in an abattoir or halal meat establishment.
  • Halal slaughtermen are required to perform all religious duties related to halal slaughter in accordance with Islamic requirements and under the direct supervision of the relevant State Halal Supervisor(s).
  • If any concerns or issues arise regarding the performance of a halal slaughterman, the supervisor will notify the AIHCO office for further action.
  • Halal slaughtermen must also comply with the operational rules and workplace instructions of the meat processing facility, including directions from the plant supervisor or manager, provided that these instructions do not conflict with halal slaughter requirements or the policies and procedures established by AIHCO.