Most animal welfare issues are the responsibility of State and Territory governments. If you are concerned about an animal welfare issue and you would like to see a change in government policy on this issue, one of the best ways to do something about it is to write to your…
An RSPCA Australia research report uses scientific evidence to examine a specific emerging animal welfare issue in depth. It is similar in structure to a literature review in a scientific journal, fully referenced, but may not be as comprehensive. Research reports provide an analysis, summary and conclusions based on the available…
An RSPCA Australia discussion paper is a document which attempts to examine current opinion and evidence on a specific animal welfare issue. A discussion paper may reflect differing perspectives, but should provide balanced information on a particular topic. It may include recommendations on what position the RSPCA should take (and may…
Policy statements are adopted, or later amended, on the unanimous vote of the RSPCA Australia member Societies, and following the recommendation of the Animal Welfare Policy Review Committee (AWPRC) and the RSPCA Australia Board. Compliance with policy statements is binding on all member Societies. Position papers are adopted, or later…
RSPCA Australia information/fact sheets are documents or short articles that provide plain English advice on a specific animal welfare issue based on RSPCA policy. The target audience is the general public and the access point is usually through the RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase. References, suggestions for further reading or links to other…
An RSPCA Australia policy statement is a straightforward statement or declaration of RSPCA policy on a particular animal welfare matter governance or operational topic or subject. Policy statements are usually short and concise and include a clear description and a brief rationale of the basis for the policy for example:…
An RSPCA Australia position paper is an explanatory document and is intended to be more comprehensive than an RSPCA policy on a particular topic or subject. A position paper may include a restatement of a related policy but it also contains background information and discussion or statements of how policy…
Development of a policy statement or position paper begins with a discussion paper drafted by the RSPCA Australia office or any member Society and presented to the RSPCA Australia Board. This is held as a record of the basis for the position. The paper should include an explanation of the…
RSPCA Australia opposes the export of Australian racing greyhounds because it puts them at significant risk of poor animal welfare outcomes. The risks include stress and injuries associated with long-distance transport, lack of animal welfare legal protection in importing countries, and the potential to enter the dog meat trade. The…
Livestock transported in Australia are routinely deprived of water for variable periods including curfew (prior to transport), during transport and in saleyards and depots. Under the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for the Land Transport of Livestock, the maximum time off water is 48 hours for cattle and goats over…