Have your say and help us protect all animals in South Australia

The Animal Welfare Act 1985 (SA) is being reviewed for the first time since 2007, which means we have an opportunity to make our voices heard, and make a positive difference to the lives of all animals.

Read the current Animal Welfare Act 1985 (SA).

We would like to encourage everyone to have their say.

The submission is in survey format, but don’t let this discourage you! If you don’t want to answer every question you are welcome to simply provide comments via the ‘General Feedback' section at the end.

If you would like some pointers, please feel free to use the information below to guide your response, or use them as a starting point and add your own thoughts.

The more responses received, the better. 

The AJP will be focussing our submission on raising awareness of these key issues:

1. The need to recognise and protect ALL animals under this legislation, including fish, invertebrates, animals used in the entertainment and racing industry, animals used in research, and farmed animals;
2. The continued slaughter of waterbirds in South Australia;
3. The cruelty inflicted on animals in the racing industry - particularly greyhounds;
4. The serious lack of protection provided to wildlife - particularly kangaroos; and 
5. The need for drastic change in relation to monitoring, enforcement and penalties.

In support of these issues, we recommend the following survey responses and comments:

Question 6: Strongly disagree

Question 7: Yes

Question 8: Strongly disagree

Question 9: The definition of animal should include all sentient animals, including fish and invertebrates.

Question 10: Strongly disagree

Question 11: Strongly disagree

Question 12: Yes

Question 13: Strongly disagree

Question 14: Strongly disagree

Question 15: Strongly disagree

Question 16: Strongly disagree

Question 17: Strongly disagree

Question 18: Strongly disagree

Question 19: Strongly disagree

Question 20: Strongly disagree

Question 21: Strongly disagree

Question 22 General comments:

• The definition of animals under the current Act excludes a range of sentient animals including fish and invertebrates. The definition needs to be updated to include all animals. 
• An objects clause which recognises animal sentience is important to underpin and strengthen the animal welfare infrastructure in Australia. 
• The list of prohibited activities under the Act needs to be expanded to include additional activities such as performing procedures capable of causing pain or distress to an animal without the use of anaesthetic or pain relief.
• Animals involved in teaching and research should not be exempt from the protection of this Act.
• A Government funded Independent Office of Animal Welfare with powers of investigation and enforcement is needed. The penalties for non-compliance with the Act need to be significantly increased.
• Duck shooting, greyhound racing, and commercial kangaroo slaughter must be banned.
• Closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance in slaughter-houses should be mandated.

Consultation is open until March 26 2023.

Complete the Survey