Pet Professionals | What is the Australian legislation governing animal welfare?

What is the Australian legislation governing animal welfare?

There are no national laws applying to animal welfare, but all states and territories regulate animal welfare in their jurisdiction. You will find the legislation for each state and territory on the RSPCA Knowledge Base. All Pet Owners & Pet Sitters need to familiarise themselves with legislation relating to dog and cat registration, along with requirements for microchipping of dogs, cats and horses.


State


Animal Welfare Act 


Department 

ACT

Animal Welfare Act 1992

Territory and Municipal Services

NSW

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979

Department of Primary Industries

NT

Animal Welfare Act

Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries

Qld

Animal Care and Protection Act 2001

Department of Agriculture

SA

Animal Welfare Act 1985

Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Tas

Animal Welfare Act 1993

Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment

Vic

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986

Agriculture Victoria

WA

Animal Welfare Act 2002

Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development