The RSPCA has called on the State Government to establish an independent statutory body to oversee animal welfare.
The Independent Queensland Animal Welfare Authority could be established under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 (Qld) and given responsibility for administering the Act, the charity said, allowing responsibility for oversight of animal welfare to move out of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.
RSPCA Queensland Head of Policy and Advocacy Rachel Woodrow said having a single department responsible for both animal welfare, and agriculture and fisheries, could result in a real, potential or perceived conflict of interest.
“Animal industries, particularly the agricultural sector, has a very significant influence over government, meaning there is a very real risk that the animal welfare laws, and policy development, is heavily skewed in favour of industry interests, even if these interests may harm the animals they are supposed to protect,” Ms Woodrow said.
She said an independent regulatory authority for animal welfare could help ensure impartial decision-making, and enhance transparency and public trust.
The authority’s responsibilities would include compliance; developing and refining legislation, policies and guidelines; collaborating with other agencies Australia-wide to ensure national consistency; and conducting inquiries and commissioning research.
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