Tuesday, 14 October 2025

 Paul MERCURIO (Hastings) presented a petition bearing 3314 signatures:

Issue:

This petition of residents in Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Assembly The delay in the introduction of the draft Animal Care and Protection Bill to Parliament. The draft Bill seeks to replace the current and less efficacious Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. The RSPCA has more animal neglect, cruelty, and abuse cases than they can manage with the number of inspectors they have. They are hampered by current legislation that is no longer fit for purpose when animals need to be seized immediately and in large numbers.

On the Mornington Peninsula, a group of over 10,000 individuals have signed a community petition to the RSPCA and Agriculture Victoria and 2,100 people joined a peaceful protest page on social media to try and assist in a rescue. There are dozens more neglect cases like this across social media and mainstream media drawing attention. Action is needed now.

Action:

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly Table the draft Animal Care and Protection Bill in Parliament as soon as possible.

Ordered that petition be considered tomorrow.