Animal Welfare
The functions, powers and responsibilities of the Animal Welfare Branch are defined and determined by the Animal Welfare Act. The Animal Welfare Branch:
- administers the Animal Welfare Act
- issues licences for research and teaching involving animals
- provides advice and support toward the implementation of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy.
Promotes community awareness about the welfare of animals through activities
- records and investigates animal welfare reports
- prosecutes offenders.
The Animal Welfare Branch does not provide a rescue service. For animal management and control issues please contact your local Council.
Animal Welfare Inspectors
Animal Welfare Inspectors are appointed by the Animal Welfare Authority and have the necessary powers to investigate offences and issue notices and infringement notices.
Animal Welfare Act
The objectives of the act are to:
- Ensure that animals are treated humanely
- Prevent cruelty to animals
- Promote community awareness about the welfare of animals
Acts of cruelty or the commission of other offences defined in the Animal Welfare Act, such as failing to comply with a notice, can mean severe penalties for offenders’ including fines up to $10,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment.
For more information please contact the Animal Welfare Branch on 1300 720 386.