Animal welfare reform
Building a stronger future for animal welfare in NSW
What's already been achieved
We have already introduced important reforms to improve animal welfare in NSW:
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025 (the regulation) commenced on 1 February 2025. This replaces the repealed Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2012. The regulation was developed following public consultation on a draft of the regulation, including its Regulatory Impact Statement. For further information, refer to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2025.
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation (Virtual Fencing) Amendment 2025
On 12 December 2025, changes were made to the regulation to allow the use of virtual fencing devices for controlling and monitoring the movement of beef and dairy cattle in NSW, subject to animal welfare safeguards and requirements relating to the responsible use of the technology.
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Puppy Farming) Act 2024 (assented on 21 November 2024)
An Act to amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the regulations under the Acts to regulate dog breeding and the advertising of dogs for sale or other transfer; and for related purposes.
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Amendment (Transparency and Fit and Proper Persons) Act 2024 (assented on 15 August 2024)
An Act to amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 to improve transparency in animal welfare enforcement activities; to provide for matters for certain convicted persons; and for related purposes.
Review of funding arrangements for Approved Charitable Organisations
A review of funding for Approved Charitable Organisations (authorised to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979) has been completed, with funding confirmed for the 2024–25 financial year.
Other changes underway
- Reviewing the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979.
- Review of the Animal Welfare Code of Practice Breeding Dogs and Cats (the Breeding Code)
- Creating an independent office of animal welfare.