The Andrews Labor Government today released its draft animal welfare action plan, Improving the Welfare of Animals in Victoria, and invited Victorians to have their say on improving animal welfare.
Member for Pascoe Vale, Lizzie Blandthorn, has been appointed by Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford as the Ambassador for Animal Welfare to lead the conversation – collaborating with the community, animal industries and welfare groups.
Whether the focus is on pets, animals bred to produce food, or animals in the wild, we all have a role to play in ensuring the welfare of animals.
The draft plan has been developed with the assistance of the expert Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, a group of animal industry and welfare specialists with a broad range of experience and knowledge.
Meaningful animal welfare reform requires a collective approach by government, animal industries and the community that underlines a shared responsibility.
The Government is seeking feedback from interested individuals, industry bodies and community groups on the draft plans key priorities of a modern legal framework, education and effective enforcement.
An online consultation website has been established to engage directly with the community to strengthen and improve animal welfare.
All Victorians are encouraged to provide feedback. Public consultation closes on Tuesday 11 October 2016.
To provide feedback go to or call 136 186.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford
“Animal welfare matters. Consumers and the community alike have have demonstrated that it’s a priority.”
“We all have a moral and ethical responsibility, as part of a fair and caring society, to ensure we have high standards of animal welfare.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Pascoe Vale and Ambassador for Animal Welfare Lizzie Blandthorn
“We want to bring a proactive animal welfare agenda to Victoria – it's not just about the prevention of cruelty to animals.”
“Victorians expect that everyone – government, animal industries, owners and others – do the right thing by animals in their care. We all have a shared responsibility to meet these expectations.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020