Western Australia's animal welfare law

Page last updated: Monday, 17 June 2019 - 8:45am

Please note: This content may be out of date and is currently under review.

The Animal Welfare Act 2002 (the Act) and its accompanying regulations provide the legal framework for ensuring that all animals in Western Australia have appropriate standards of care.

Animal Welfare Act

The Animal Welfare Act 2002 encompasses all live amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals other than humans. This includes companion animals, native animals, livestock and animals used for research and teaching but does not extend to invertebrates or fish. The Act intends to promote and protect the welfare, safety and health of animals, ensure the proper and humane care and management of animals in accordance with generally accepted standards and reflect the community’s expectation that people in charge of animals will ensure that they are properly treated and cared for.

For a copy of the Animal Welfare Act 2002 please visit the Parliamentary Counsel's Office website.

Contact information

Animal Welfare General Enquiries

Further information on reporting animal cruelty is available.