State Based
Codes of Practice
The Australian Government has committed $5 million over 4 years (2023-2027) to the renewal of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy (AAWS).
A renewed AAWS will provide a framework for a national approach to animal welfare and bring key stakeholders together on animal welfare issues of national significance.
The previous strategy lapsed in 2014. The renewal of the AAWS establishes Australia’s commitment to modern, sustainable, evidence and science-based welfare practice.
The development of the renewed AAWS will be jointly led by the Australian, and state and territory governments, built on a principles-based framework, and informed by engagement and feedback received during consultation. The AAWS is expected to be finalised in 2027. To access these codes of practice, see below.
The Australian Capital Territory’s Animal Welfare Act 1992 is a key piece of legislation that aims to prevent cruelty to animals and promote their welfare. It outlines specific offenses and corresponding penalties, including those related to cruelty, neglect, and improper care. The Act also sets standards for breeding animals and the transport, care, and management of animals.
NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (the department) is responsible for ensuring the policy and legislative frameworks in the state support good animal welfare outcomes.
The department administers the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, the Exhibited Animals Protection Act 1986 and the Animal Research Act 1985.NSW RSPCA, Animal Welfare League NSW, Greyhound Welfare Integrity Commission and the NSW Police Force are the organisations authorised to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.
The Animal Protection Act 2018 (the Act) and Animal Protection Regulations 2022 provide the regulatory framework to ensure animals are treated humanely and to regulate persons who use animals for scientific purposes. To access these acts, see below.
Animal Protection Act 2018
Animal Protection Regulations 2022
The Queensland Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 (the Act) promotes the responsible care and use of animals. It places a legal duty of care on people in charge of animals to meet those animals’ needs in an appropriate way. To access these acts, see below.
The South Australian Animal Welfare Act 1985 is the primary piece of legislation in South Australia that addresses animal welfare. It aims to prevent cruelty, promote animal welfare, and protect animals from harm. The Act covers a broad range of topics, including ill-treatment of animals, prohibited activities, and the use of animals in teaching and research. To access these acts, see below.
The Tasmania Animal Welfare Act 1993 is a law in Tasmania that defines the duty of care owed to animals and outlines what actions constitute cruelty. It covers various aspects of animal welfare, including the management of animals, the use of animals in research, and the powers of officers to enforce the Act. To access these acts, see below.
The codes of practice for animal welfare listed below are made under either the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (POCTA Act) or the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (DA Act).
Codes of practice set out recommended minimum standards and practices for the keeping of a wide range of species and animal related activities. They should be read in conjunction with other relevant legislation such as the DAA and POCTA Acts.
The requirements of all DA Act codes are mandatory.
The Western Australian (WA) Animal Welfare Act 2002 is the primary law that governs animal welfare in the state. It aims to ensure the proper care, management, and protection of animals, prohibiting cruelty and promoting their welfare. The Act applies to a wide range of animals, including companion animals, native animals, livestock, and those used for research or teaching. To access these acts, see below.
Take me back to the
PIAA Member's Portal
