NSW Companion Animals Act Review

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has welcomed the opportunity to provide expert input into the 2025 review of the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998. Drawing on the experience of veterinarians working across clinical, research, and community settings, our submission outlines practical reforms to strengthen animal welfare, support responsible pet ownership, and improve community safety.

Key priorities include:

• Stronger oversight of dog and cat breeders to prevent poor welfare outcomes.
• Improved processes for managing stray and roaming animals, including the need for a consistent approach across councils.
• Mandatory prepubertal desexing of cats to reduce unwanted litters and pressures on shelters.
• Better support for local governments to deliver animal management services.
• A call for clearer legislation around dangerous dog designations and enforcement.

The AVA’s submission is grounded in evidence and the daily realities faced by veterinarians. We look forward to working with the NSW Government to ensure modern, humane, and effective companion animal laws that reflect both community expectations and animal welfare needs.