Government and policy


Our laws lag well behind community expectations when it comes to the treatment of animals, especially farmed animals and wildlife. We engage with governments to influence policies to improve the lives of all animals. Find out more about this work and how you can help.

Hens looking out from crowded battery cages.

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Understand the history of this issue.
  • Speak up against legalised cruelty in Victoria

    There is a critical window of opportunity right now for you to make sure Victoria's new animal welfare laws protect all animals. Complete an online survey and provide your written submission today.

  • Labor’s election win marks a historic moment for animals

    While the 2022 election result means something different to each of us, for animals, it is an extraordinary marker of positive change.

  • How a National Commission for Animal Welfare will help animals

    There's an exciting new policy being debated this Federal election that if supported would be life-changing for animals suffering in factory farms and the live export trade.

  • Who's standing up for animals this Federal election?

    Every election can be a catalyst for change for animals and that's especially the case this year - because this year’s Federal election will also decide the future of the live sheep export trade. Find out where parties, candidates and…

  • Summer live export ban at risk

    Australian sheep will once again be put at risk of 'cooking alive' at sea. Government bureaucrats are winding back the three month 'summer ban' which will put sheep back on the water at the deadliest time of year. Urge your…

  • Animal-friendly law changes worth celebrating!

    Legislative change to protect animals is hard fought and long won. But when change does occur, it’s worth celebrating! These laws to better protect animals are stepping us closer to a kinder future for all.

  • Ensure your MP is fully informed on battery cages

    The egg industry has seemingly been sending state MPs very questionable 'information' in the lead up to a big decision on cages. Share the full story for hens!

  • End Live Export - No animal should die like this

    For the millions of animals who have fallen victim to this callous industry, and the countless more who are at risk of sharing their fate — urge the Australian Government to spare animals from the cruelty of live export.

  • Does the Labor Party stand against this cruelty?

    Sickening live export footage shows 'history repeating', and that animals desperately need the independent protection the ALP previously pledged to support.

  • Ensure NSW doesn't derail the battery cage ban

    Urge the NSW Government to listen to the community and animal welfare science — and support a phase-out of 'conventional' battery cages.

  • Governments fail to address the cow in the room at COP26 – now, it’s up to us

    While Australia’s government may be slow to take the necessary action to protect Australians, our wildlife, and our environment, we have the power to make changes, and we can start now.

  • How laws are failing animals: codes of cruelty

    Have you ever wondered why hens can be packed into a single cage for their entire lives, when their suffering is so obvious? Or why mother pigs can be confined in cages so small they can't even turn around?

  • Shocking cruelty inside Aus Govt approved slaughterhouse

    Urge Labor to keep their promise to end live sheep export, and call for an end to cruel practices from a slaughterhouse approved by the Australian Government’s live export scheme.

  • HUGE news for farmed animals: EU looks set to ban cages

    Animal advocates around the world are celebrating as EU Parliament votes to outlaw some of the cruellest treatment of farmed animals like pigs, chickens, and rabbits. This compassionate decision will spare MILLIONS of feeling, sensitive animals from life in a…

  • Great news for dolphins! No more captive breeding in NSW

    New regulations outlawing the commercial breeding and importation of dolphins have officially been passed in NSW!

  • Petition to end live export cruelty

    Please help us protect animals—including cattle, sheep and goats—from the cruelty of live export by signing this petition to the Prime Minister of Australia.

  • People power stops new live export business in its tracks

    A plan to begin exporting live animals from Namibia to Kuwait has been quashed thanks to a united, global effort drawing attention to the suffering caused by the trade.

  • VICTORY: South Africa's High Court puts hold on sheep exports!

    A live exporter sailed to South Africa with the intention of shipping 70,000 animals into the dangerous Northern summer. But the NSPCA were waiting for them.

  • How does your bank measure up when it comes to animal welfare?

    While you're doing your best to live a compassionate, responsible life by making ethical choices and purchases, your bank could be using the rest of your savings, undermining all your best efforts.

  • Big Four big win: NAB announces animal welfare policy!

    Thanks to thousands of Animals Australia supporters taking action, NAB has announced an animal welfare policy: a first for the Big Four banks.