Reforms Lack Comprehensive Modernisation
The Australian Alliance for Animals has welcomed the introduction of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Enforcement and Operational Powers) Bill 2026 into the NSW Parliament. However, the Alliance expressed disappointment that the reforms fall short of the NSW Government’s commitment to modernise the state’s outdated animal welfare laws. The proposed amendments introduce enforcement and operational improvements to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, including refinements to existing offences and compliance powers.
NSW Labour had promised a new contemporary animal welfare framework before the 2023 election, yet the legislation does not replace the nearly 50-year-old Act. Dr Jed Goodfellow, Policy Director of the Alliance, highlighted, “While we support measures that strengthen enforcement and improve the operation of the existing Act, these amendments do not deliver the comprehensive modernisation that was promised to the NSW community.”
He added, “NSW still has the oldest animal welfare legislation in Australia. The community expects animal welfare laws that reflect contemporary science, modern community values, and current understanding of animal sentience and welfare.”
Public Support for Stronger Protections
The Alliance reported that over 7,000 public submissions were made advocating for stronger animal welfare protections. Despite this, the comprehensive Animal Welfare Act has not been realised. Key reforms, including the recognition of animal sentience and a modern duty of care framework, remain absent. This absence is concerning for advocates.
Dr Goodfellow expressed hope, stating, “We remain hopeful that the NSW Government will continue the reform process and build on these amendments to deliver the modern animal welfare framework it committed to introducing.”
The Alliance has welcomed changes introduced by the bill, such as refinements to existing offences and enhanced compliance powers, seeing these as steps towards better enforcement of animal welfare laws. Animal welfare reform in NSW has involved extensive consultation over many years, with participation from community members, animal welfare organisations, industry stakeholders, and experts.
“There is overwhelming public support for stronger animal welfare protections in NSW,” Dr Goodfellow noted. “People want laws that move beyond simply prohibiting cruelty and instead establish clear, modern standards for the care and treatment of animals.”
