The Andrews Labor Government is supporting not-for-profit organisations and volunteers to improve the wellbeing of Victorian pets and animal owners through Animal Welfare Grants.
Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes today visited Second Chance Animal Rescue in Craigieburn to announce the recipients of the latest round of grants, with eight organisations to share in more than $250,000 for programs and facilities for pets across the state.
Second Chance Animal Rescue has received $45,505 to build a not-for-profit community animal hospital surgery and recovery rooms, ensuring high-quality, accessible and affordable care for pets from low-income or disadvantaged homes.
Other grant recipients will be funded to care for animals involved in crisis – with Wala Animal Sanctuary supported to build temporary housing for animals that become separated from their owners in a crisis, and Eastern Domestic Violence Service to train vets to respond to animal and pet abuse in family violence cases.
The RSPCA will receive a grant to manage stray cat populations on the Great South Coast with a focus on responsible ownership, while Second Chance Cat Rescue in Cranbourne will build a sanctuary for rescued cats.
Camperdown Pastoral and Agricultural Society will run a project on how to safely care for dogs through challenging climatic conditions, creating targeted education programs and shared community facilities for socialising dogs.
Mount Alexander Animal Welfare and the Lost Dogs’ Home will be supported to improve their kennel facilities, ensuring Victorians and their furry family members have access to affordable, compassionate care.
The Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program commenced in 2012 in recognition of the outstanding services delivered across Victoria by not-for-profit organisations, and the significant role animals play in the lives of Victorians.
The fund is an important part of the Labor Government’s commitment to ensure volunteer organisations have the resources they need to assist and care for animals, wherever they are based.
The Government has committed a further $3 million to support not-for-profit community vet clinics, animal shelters and foster carers.
Details of the next round of grants will be made available at .
Quote attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes
“Pets are an important part of the lives of so many Victorians, and we’re lucky to have volunteer organisations who are committed to improving the lives of animals and pet lovers across the state.”
Quote attributable to Member for Yuroke Ros Spence
“These projects are tackling specific local issues faced by pets and their owners, to ensure animals receive the best care no matter where they live.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020