Premier Allan Urged to Prioritize Legislation Update
MELBOURNE — Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan is under fire from animal welfare groups for delays in updating the state’s animal welfare laws. The Victorian government may not introduce the much-anticipated Animal Care and Protection Bill this year, according to the Australian Alliance for Animals.
The alliance, which includes six major animal welfare organisations, has expressed concern that the long-overdue reforms might be postponed due to a packed legislative agenda and reduced sitting days in parliament. The new bill aims to replace the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, which has been in place for four decades.
Nicola Beynon, Campaigns Director at Humane World for Animals Australia, stated, “Failure by Premier Allan to bring this important legislation before the Victorian Parliament in 2026 would see yet another year of inadequate protections for animals in the state under its severely outdated laws.”
Concerns Over Legislative Delays
The alliance has called on Premier Allan to expedite the legislative process, emphasizing the importance of aligning Victoria’s laws with modern values. Dr. Jed Goodfellow, Policy Director at the Australian Alliance for Animals, said, “Victorians expect their laws to reflect modern community values and right now, they simply don’t.”
Animal welfare reform has been a long-standing issue in Victoria, with commitments made by the government as far back as 2017. Glenys Oogjes, CEO of Animals Australia, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that outdated legislation fails to protect animals effectively. Ben Pearson, Country Director of World Animal Protection Australia and New Zealand, added, “The Victorian Government has had years to get this reform right. Failing to introduce the legislation again in 2026 sends a deeply concerning signal that animal welfare is no longer a priority.”
The call for reform comes amidst growing public concern over animal rights and welfare, reflecting a broader trend towards more comprehensive protection measures. Rebecca Linigen, National Director of FOUR PAWS Australia, remarked on the negative impact of continued delays, which undermine confidence in achieving meaningful change.
Source: newshub.medianet.com.au
Last updated: 1 April 2026, 10:27 am
