Animal Welfare Reform
The NSW Government is committed to the introduction of a new animal welfare framework in NSW.
Several changes have already been implemented:
- Introducing a 'fit and proper person' regime that will prevent people convicted of an aggravated animal cruelty offence, multiple or repeat animal cruelty offences from being involved in the keeping and breeding of animals, including companion animals.
- For further information, view the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Transparency and Fit and Proper Persons) Act 2024.
- Introducing legislation to ban puppy farms in NSW.
- For further information, view the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Puppy Farming) Act 2024.
- Reviewing the funding arrangements for Approved Charitable Organisations, that are legislated to conduct compliance and enforcement activities under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.
- The review has been completed, and funding has been announced for the Approved Charitable Organisations for the 24/25 financial year.
Other changes underway include:
- Reviewing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.
- Creating an independent office of animal welfare.
Previous consultation feedback from the community and stakeholders is being utilised to inform the development of the proposed new animal welfare framework.
There will be further opportunities for stakeholders and the community to have their say on the shape of our animal welfare laws.
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025 (the Regulation) commenced on 1 February 2025. This current version of the Regulation replaces the repealed Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2012. The Regulation was developed following public consultation on a draft of the Regulation, including its Regulatory Impact Statement. For further information, refer to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025
