Protecting Tasmanian Animals

The Tasmanian Government has been informed that the recent tragic death of a dog in Hobart is being investigated by the RSPCA with the support of the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and the Environment (DPIPWE).

In November 2020, the Minister wrote to the Chair of the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, asking that the Committee consider improvements to the Animal Welfare Act to better protect animals, particularly dogs.

The Government is expecting advice from AWAC and DPIPWE in the near future and we will ensure that any recommendations take this recent tragic situation into consideration.
While it is inappropriate to comment on this current investigation, the Minister has spoken with the Chair of the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee about this incident and continues to work closely with the RSPCA.

The Government takes animal welfare seriously, which is why we significantly strengthened the Animal Welfare Act in 2015 and increased penalties across the board and improved the powers of Animal Welfare Officers.

All reports of animal cruelty are taken seriously, and DPIPWE and the RSPCA have formal arrangements in place for responding to and investigating animal cruelty allegations.

If a member of the public sees or witnesses any animal welfare issues, this can be reported to the RSPCA at reportit@rspcatas.org.au or 1300 139 947.