New South Wales Government Submissions
Inquiry into the Management of Cat Populations in NSW
APWF provided an evidence-based submission to the Animal Welfare Committee’s inquiry into the Management of Cat Populations in New South Wales (NSW). Cats represent one of the most pressing and persistent management challenges for local governments, animal welfare agencies, animal rescue groups and communities across NSW. This inquiry provided an opportunity for the NSW Government to be a leader in effective domestic cat management based on a One Welfare approach that optimises the welfare of animals, humans and their social and physical environments, including protecting wildlife..
Inquiry into the Veterinary Workforce Shortage in NSW
Australia is currently experiencing a critical veterinarian shortage. This shortage has existed for years and has been compounded by the Covid-19 pandemic. The current vet shortage is a complex problem and will require multiple solutions. High attrition rates and negative mental health are significant issues in the veterinary profession.
Improving New South Wales rental laws
Pet ownership rates are high in Australia with a recent pet ownership boom during the Covid-19 pandemic. In Australia, 69% of households now own a pet, which is an increase from 61% just two years ago. Pets provide well-recognised significant physical, mental and economic benefits to people through pet companionship (AMA 2021).
Inquiry into pounds in New South Wales
Cats present the most significant and longstanding management issue for NSW pounds. Unlike dogs, cat intake has remained relatively stable across NSW over the past decade. Euthanasia rates for cats are substantially higher than for dogs in NSW pounds, 9% of dogs are euthanased versus 32% of cats and kittens euthanased on average across NSW pounds.
Lane Cove Wildlife Protection Areas
While the impact of feral cats on Australian native wildlife populations in natural environments is well-documented, there is no scientific evidence that domestic cats (cats that live in the vicinity of people), have any viability or conservation impacts at a population level on native wildlife.
Review of NSW Companion Animal Regulatory Issues
Recommendations for Effective Cat Management dated 29 September 2021.
Recommendations for Effective Cat Management – Supplementary Materials dated 29 September 2021.
We will be adding more New South Wales Government Submissions soon.