9/01/06
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) will receive continued Government funding of $1million over the next four years.
Minister for Local Government and Regional Development John Bowler said the RSPCA remained an independent and valued volunteer-based organisation committed to the protection and welfare of animals within our community.
“Animal welfare remains a priority for this Government and we are keen to continue our partnership with the RSPCA to achieve better outcomes for all animals in Western Australia,” Mr Bowler said.
“Successive balanced Budgets enable our Government to fulfil its initial election commitment of funding of $1million over a four-year period to the RSPCA.
“As further evidence of the importance of responsible animal ownership and the essential role the RSPCA plays in the many aspects of enforcing appropriate behaviours, an additional four years’ funding has been committed to support their function.”
The Minister said the funding would be used to support an education and community awareness campaign, promoting responsible ownership, treatment and respect for animals.
In addition to the recommitment of funding, Mr Bowler today presented a LotteryWest cheque for $126,315 to assist with the purchase of specialised software, conversion of existing databases, notebook computers and website redesign.
The continuation of Government funding will further aid management of the inspectorate, set up to help manage animal welfare issues.
“The Animal Welfare Act 2002 has sent a clear message to the community that we as a Government are getting tough on people who are cruel to animals,” Mr Bowler said.
“This was the first major revision of the previous legislation introduced in 1920.”
The State of WA now has some of the harshest penalties in the country, with the ability to impose fines of up to $50,000 and five-year prison sentences on those who are shown to have behaved unacceptably towards animals.
Minister's office: 9213 6500
