Measures debated to support pet rescuers

The Domestic Animals Amendment (Rehoming Cats and Dogs and Other Matters) Bill 2025 acts on five of 17 recommendations the Government has committed to implementing after a taskforce investigated ways to improve and further support volunteers and pet rehoming organisations.

‘This Bill formally recognises, for the first time in our state, the significant contribution that Victoria’s pet rehoming organisations make in finding homes for cats and dogs,’ Minister Ros Spence said.

‘A growing number of cats and dogs in Victoria need new homes, and it is vital that local and state government have a better understanding of where these animals are, and how they’re being rehomed.’

The legislation proposes a regulatory framework which encourages pet rehoming organisations to apply for authorisation so they can access specific benefits to reduce costs. They would also need to report and provide data on the fate of animals in their care.

Prahran MP Rachel Westaway said the Opposition will not oppose the Bill; however, it does have serious concerns about it. 

‘We will be pursuing amendments in the upper house to ensure this legislation truly serves the community organisations it claims to support, rather than creating other systems destined for low uptake and unintended consequences,’ she said.

‘The opposition does not oppose reform. We support measures that genuinely improve animal welfare outcomes, but reform must be practical, proportionate and informed by proper consultation with stakeholders.’

Bass MP Jordan Crugnale said the Bill is an important step forward for animal welfare in Victoria and reflects years of consultation.

‘This reform reflects the insights of those who live this work every day,’ she said.

‘To qualify for authorisation, organisations must be registered charities with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. This ensures accountability and public trust and highlights that rehoming work is driven by service to the community, not profit.’

The Bill proposes a range of amendments to the Domestic Animals Act 1994 to support the rehoming activities of organisations including enabling authorised organisations to hold adoption days to rehome cats and dogs at pounds, animal shelters and at pet shops.

‘While we certainly do not oppose the bill before us today, and it does go some way to improve the current system, there is a clear need to monitor its impact for unintended consequences on the sector, ‘ Kew MP Jess Wilson said. 

Members of Parliament expressed bipartisan appreciation for Victorian volunteers’ dedication to take in, rehabilitate and find new homes for cats and dogs in Victoria. 

‘Our laws will formally recognise the extraordinary contribution of Victoria’s pet rehoming organisations – the rescue groups, the adoption networks and the volunteer-run charities who dedicate themselves day in and day out to give cats and dogs a second chance at life,’ Northcote MP Kat Theophanous said.

‘The volunteers and foster carers who step up are not just ticking boxes; they are opening their homes and their hearts to creatures that would otherwise have no voice,’ Mornington MP Chris Crewther said.

The Bill has been sent to the Legislative Council for its consideration.

You can read the full debate from the Legislative Assembly in Hansard.