Thousands of Queenslanders help to update animal welfare laws

Thousands of Queenslanders have contributed their thoughts to a review to update the state’s animal welfare laws.

More than 2300 survey responses and written submissions on the review of the Animal Care and Protection Act have been assessed by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and will help to shape the new laws.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and

Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the goal was to ensure Queensland’s animal welfare laws continue to appropriately protect animals and were consistent with community expectations.

“Earlier this year we invited Queenslanders to have their say on animal welfare laws during a six-week consultation period,” Mr Furner said.

“Feedback has come from a range of groups spanning agriculture, welfare and advocacy, education, research and sports and recreation.”

Mr Furner said about half of the survey responses submitted came from regional or rural areas of Queensland.

“A wide range of issues were raised which reflects the community’s deep interest in this topic,” he said.

“We’ll be taking all of this into account as we consider what changes need to be made to our laws to give the best protection to our animals.”

You can view a summary report on the consultation at www.daf.qld.gov.au by searching for ‘Review of the Animal Care and Protection Act’.

The report provides an overview of the responses coming out of the consultation feedback.