Thursday, 15 August 2019

In reply to  Mr MEDDICK (Western Victoria) (20 June 2019)

Ms SYMES (Northern Victoria—Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Resources):

The Victorian Government recognises the ongoing commitment and efforts of the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation community who respond to situations of wildlife trapped in fruit tree netting across Victoria.

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (POCTA) Regulations 2008 are under sunset review. New regulations are required to be made by 15 December 2019. Draft POCTA Regulations and an associated Regulatory Impact Statement is planned for public consultation in August 2019.

Animal Welfare Victoria has consulted with wildlife rescue and rehabilitation groups and other stakeholders on the regulation of fruit tree netting. New POCTA Regulations provide an opportunity to regulate wildlife-safe netting for use on backyard fruit trees.