The McGowan Government will deliver a $300,000 funding boost to six vital animal rescue shelters to support their continued efforts.
Following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, animal shelter organisations had reported the number of animals rescued and surrendered had significantly increased, placing pressure on the shelters.
The McGowan Government currently provides funding of $200,000 per year to six animal shelters that care for, rescue, sterilise and arrange adoption of cats and dogs.
The organisations who will share in the further $300,000 funding are:
- Cat Welfare Society - $75,000;
- Saving Animals from Euthanasia (SAFE) - $75,000;
- Dogs Refuge Home WA - $75,000;
- Animal Protection Society - $30,000;
- K9 Rescue Group - $30,000; and
- Swan Animal Haven - $15,000.
It comes as new facilities were officially opened at the Dogs Refuge Home WA in Shenton Park, backed by a $400,000 McGowan Government election commitment.
The upgrades include a new kennel, a dedicated outside exercise yard and installation of new walkways to allow visitors to view the dogs for adoption or fostering.
The not-for-profit organisation has been operating in the State for more than 87 years, providing care for more than 1500 surrendered dogs each year, from both the metropolitan area and regional WA.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"My Government is proud to provide support to these integral animal rescue shelters with this $300,000 funding boost.
"Western Australia is home to an array of passionate and dedicated not-for-profit animal rescue organisations who care for our most vulnerable animals.
"The COVID-19 pandemic unfortunately saw a rise in the number of animals rescued or surrendered - and this funding will help to support the important work of these shelters as they manage the backlog."
As stated by Local Government Minister John Carey:
"Dogs, cats and all pets for that matter are an important part of so many families in Western Australia, including mine.
"Pet rescue homes are often staffed and run by local volunteers who give up their own time and commitments to care for abandoned, surrendered or rescued animals, and we thank these organisations and volunteers for their efforts.
"This funding will support these six animal care and rescue organisations so they can continue their important work."
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"The Dogs Refuge Home WA is one of our oldest animal welfare organisations in Australia and has a vital role in maintaining a high standard of health and welfare for dogs, as well as working to find them new permanent homes.
"Dogs, whether they are companion or working animals, have an important place in the lives of many Western Australians.
"The upgrades to the kennel facilities means Dogs Refuge Home WA can continue the important work they do to give dogs a second chance at a happy life."
As stated by Nedlands MLA Katrina Stratton:
"The opening of this new kennel at the Dogs Refuge WA marks the delivery of an election commitment I made to the Nedlands community in 2021.
"As the local member I have seen first-hand the inspiring work the Dogs Refuge Home does to take care of some of the most vulnerable animals in the State, and I am proud to be opening the new facilities today.
"This funding will also support another local institution - the Cat Haven WA so they can continue their great work right here in Nedlands."
