The development of the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry ( including pigeons ) is an important initiative of Australian governments to guide new, nationally consistent policies to enhance animal welfare arrangements in all Australian states and territories. The development process is supported and funded by all governments and the major poultry industries. The standards will provide a basis for developing and implementing consistent legislation and enforcement across Australia and provide guidance for all people responsible for poultry. They are based on current scientific knowledge, recommended industry practice and mainstream community expectations. Standards are underpinned by science through a review of the relevant scientific literature, a process that helps to ensure that the standards are scientifically valid.
The Standards and Guidelines are still in the draft stage and as yet have not passed into law. The period for public consultation started 3 years before the VRPB was formed. The VRPB was invited to comment, but unfortunately only 9 days before the time for submissions closed. The specific standards and guidelines for pigeons are in part B11 on page 47. The VRPB felt that there was some uncertainty about what 'free flight' actually meant. This could be interpreted as 30 minutes flying around a loft. The VRPB recommended the insertion highlighted in blue below. This insertion is particularly relevant during a Covid lockdown where an inability to road train means that racing cannot immediately resume once the lockdown is lifted. The suggested insertion has been submitted for review.
Racing pigeons
GB11.11
Free flight exercise should be in accordance with a plan, and for at least 30 minutes duration per day during both pre-training and the race programme.Whilst free flight is a good way to promote health and well-being it should not be used on its own and Road Training should also be maintained.
GB11.11a
Road Training is important for the physical development and mental preparation of the Racing pigeon.
• It serves to both educate and develop.
       • the physical conditioning (fitness) for the racing pigeons upcoming event.
       • the mental preparation for the upcoming event.
              • via transportation.
              • navigation and enhancing the homing ability.
       • It should be conducted as regularly and frequently as possible with flying times ranging from 30 minutes up to 90 minutes.

The full version of the guidelines is available for download from here
Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for Poultry(including Pigeons)