In the Federal Court of Australia, Mr Justice Hely began hearing Australian Wool Innovation Limited's (AWI) application to summons PETA Inc and other PETA officers who are based in the United States and named in the amended Statement of Claim.
This case commenced when Ingrid Newkirk was summonsed when she visited Australia in November 2004.
Justice Hely is expected to make his decision shortly.
Then, on Friday, 19 August, Justice Hely will hear a separate application by Ingrid Newkirk to have AWI's amended Statement of Claim struck out.
AWI Deputy CEO Les Targ described the latest hearing as “an important step in the legal process which has been commenced for the protection of Australian woolgrowers and retailers”.
“We must stop PETA threatening and intimidating retailers with its misleading and deceptive campaign.
“AWI and the 105 other applicants are encouraged by the support from woolgrowers around Australia for this important legal action.”