Advocacy

RSPCA NSW is committed to protecting the bond between people and animals by driving meaningful policy change. Modernising legislation plays a crucial role in ensuring better outcomes for pets and their owners.

In 2024 alone, we made multiple written submissions and provided expert evidence at more than a dozen parliamentary hearings, including inquiries into Pounds in New South Wales, the Veterinary Workforce Shortage, and The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Virtual Stock Fencing) Bill 2024.

Our advocacy efforts contributed to several key legislative reforms, including amendments to the Bail and Other Legislation Amendment (Domestic Violence) Bill 2024, ensuring animal cruelty offences are considered in bail applications. We also played a role in the Pet-Friendly Strata Reform, which removed unfair fees and bonds that discouraged pet ownership in strata housing.

Our Advocacy Priorities

Policy Reform

Driving policy reform to strengthen policies that directly impact animal welfare protections and management practices.

Keeping People and Pets Together

Collaborating with agencies that assist individuals during emergencies and times of need.

Protecting Wildlife and Marine Animals

Safeguarding wildlife and marine animals by reducing harm and detrimental human interference.

Improving Access to Veterinary Care

Improving access to veterinary services, including affordable health checks and desexing initiatives in remote, disadvantaged, and underserviced NSW communities.

Cat Management

Advocate for a holistic, humane, and evidence-based approach to cat management in NSW.

Advocacy Highlight: The Animal Research Amendment Bill 2024 banned forced swim tests and smoke inhalation experiments in NSW.

Our education programs and learning materials encourage young people to develop their understanding of animals and their welfare

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