In the first round of animal welfare grants, 16 community-based projects will share $500,000 in grants to promote the wellbeing of companion animals and rescued wildlife.
Included in the funding is a pilot project offering low-cost veterinary services to vulnerable pet owners, new ICU incubators and diagnostic equipment for wildlife rehabilitation, and a carer support package for abandoned pet rabbits.
Alannah MacTiernan, Minister for Agriculture and Food, said Western Australians rate the welfare of animals as a priority.
“Not-for-profit and community organisations play a big role in maintaining the welfare of companion and native animals.
“There has been a high level of demand for these animal welfare grants across metropolitan and regional parts of the State, highlighting the need for services which protect and care for vulnerable animals.”
Other successful projects include ‘Spay it Forward’ which offers subsidised desexing and microchipping of cats and dogs to concession card holders or families in need, a nursery in the Great Southern to help kangaroo and possum joeys transition to release, and facilities to provide safe, temporary accommodation for animals whose carers are escaping domestic violence.
The grants are part of the governments $2 million Animal Welfare Grant Program that will run over four years, and of which the second round is now open.
“Grants under the second round of the Animal Welfare Grant Program are now available and we encourage eligible groups to apply,” said MacTiernan.
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