Animal Welfare

In reply to the Hon. T.A. FRANKS ().17 November 2022).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector): The Minister for Climate, Environment and Water has advised:

Reports of cruelty received by my office are referred to the Department for Environment and Water and forwarded to the RSPCA, as the relevant authority for investigation, if required.

Given legal privilege and ensuring current investigations are not compromised, I can say these reports have been taken seriously and can provide the following information.

An investigation has been triggered by the RSPCA resulting in a warrant being obtained and the property being inspected by RSPCA inspectors. As a result of the inspection, a number of orders were placed on the owners of the animals found at the property. The RSPCA will continue to monitor the condition of animals on the property in accordance with recent supervision orders imposed by the court.

In addition to these direct actions, I have asked the department to review both the Dog and Cat Management Act and the Animal Welfare Act and have also sought advice from the RSPCA to highlight any gaps in the law which make it difficult to ensure the welfare of animals in this situation.