Issue 5, May 2020

A Message from the NSW Chief Animal Welfare Officer

NSW DPI has established a COVID-19 Primary Industries Liaison Team to help primary producers navigate the challenges and impacts of COVID-19 on their business and industry. You can contact the Primary Industries Liaison Team by emailing covidinfo@dpi.nsw.gov.au. 

A range of drought support packages continue to be rolled out including transport assistance for animal welfare and donated fodder. Further information on drought assistance can be found on the Drought Hub website.

During these tough times it is important that people look after themselves as well as the welfare of their animals. A reminder that support is available from the Rural Resilience Program and  the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program 

COVID-19 and animal movements 

On 15 May 2020 the NSW Government eased some restrictions. It is important that as restrictions change you keep up to date with the latest health advice. 

If you own or care for animals, you should plan ahead and consider a range of factors that will reduce the risk of animal welfare issues that may occur during a human health pandemic.

You can find more information at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/home/covid-19/covid-19-animal-care

Animal welfare reform- issues paper

In February 2020 we published the NSW Animal Welfare Reform - Issues Paper. This was an important step towards modernising the policy and legislative framework for animal welfare in NSW. 

You have the opportunity to help set the direction for animal welfare law reform. Consultation on the Issues Paper will close on 21 June 2020 and the NSW DPI welcomes feedback from all members of the community. 

More information about the Issues Paper is available on the DPI website here. 

You can respond to the Issues Paper by completing our online survey here, or by providing a written submission by email to animalwelfare.submissions@dpi.nsw.gov.au or by post toL

Department of Primary Industries, c/o Animal Welfare, Locked Bag 21, Orange NSW 2800.

There will be further opportunities to comment as we progress development of new animal welfare laws. We appreciate your interest in the reform process.

Thanks for your ongoing interest in improving animal welfare in NSW.

Anyone wishing to receive this newsletter and other updates from us can register online.

Wishing you and your animals good health. 

Dr Kim Filmer BVSc, GCMgt N3669

Chief Animal Welfare Officer

NSW Department of Primary Industries