The Minns Labor Government has announced a $2.5 million funding package to help rehome research animals.
The Research Animals Rehoming Grant Program will support animal rehoming organisations to find 'lifelong' homes for cats, dogs and other animals after they have completed their involvement in research.
Animal welfare is a priority for the NSW Government and this grant program will deliver significant benefits for animals, researchers and the community.
The aim of the grant program is to:
- improve outcomes for animals at the end of their involvement in research including increasing the number of animals rehomed
- make it easier for these animals to be rehomed by preparing them for life with families and others in 'forever homes' and
- help rehoming organisations as they manage animals into the next phase of their lives.
In 2022, the most recent figures, more than 100 domestic cats and almost 30 domestic dogs have been rehomed across NSW.
The vast bulk of cats and dogs used in research are either part of programs designed to taste test new pet foods or as part of animal medicine test programs run through vet clinics with the approval of the animal's owner.
Grants will be available for equipment and services needed to rehome research animals, with organisations able to access grants from $20,000 and up to $1 million.
Projects which could be eligible include:
- repairs, maintenance and building new animal care facilities
- purchase of equipment, such as crates and bedding
- access to veterinary services, including desexing and vaccinations
- services to the deliver training or rehabilitation and
- awareness programs to increase knowledge and awareness of animal rehoming practices.
Online applications, https://localcommunities.smartygrants.com.au/RAR for the 2024 program will open from Monday 22 July from 4 pm and close on Friday 13 September at 12 pm.
In NSW, the Animal Research Act 1985 sets out the requirements which protect the welfare of animals used in research.
Research establishments must apply to be accredited, and all research must be carried out under the approval and monitoring of an establishment's Animal Ethics Committee.
Animal Welfare League NSW is a peak body and industry leader of practices in the field of animal welfare in NSW.
Animal Welfare League NSW is also an active member and participant in various professional organisations, advisory committees, councils, associations, and services in the field of animal welfare in NSW.
Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
"The NSW Government is committed to improving the welfare outcomes of research animals.
"This $2.5 million grant program will be dedicated to improving animal welfare outcomes by supporting organisations to successfully rehome research animals.
"Successful rehoming requires education and a coordinated, cooperative approach, which the NSW Government is supporting by working with research, rehoming and animal welfare organisations to achieve an appropriate and optimum outcome for research animals when they retire."
Animal Welfare League NSW CEO Stephen Albin said:
"AWL NSW aims to rehome all the animals that come into our care, regardless of their origins.
"Our commitment involves enhancing each animal's socialisation skills by understanding their past, respecting their individual needs, and providing a safe and protected sanctuary here at our Kemps Creek Shelter.
"We offer every animal, including those from research, high-quality veterinary care, behavioural improvements, including walking animals four times daily, nutritional enhancement and careful matching with potential owners.
"Our unique 'Hope to Love' journey allows for prolonged stays demonstrating our dedication to animal welfare.
"Through these innovative animal welfare programs, we focus on enhancing the lives of thousands of animals every year, more than 3,500 in 2023 to 2024, and strengthening the bond between pets and their owners."
