The NSW Government has begun a comprehensive review of the Companion Animals Act 1998, aiming to modernise the state’s approach to pet ownership and animal welfare.
The review is the first full update since 2005 and will consider public feedback to improve how cats and dogs are cared for and managed across the state.
Ron Hoenig, Minister for Local Government, said it is time to conduct a wholesale review of the Act and analyse the issues that have arisen since its introduction.
“We have seen the tragic outcome of fatal dog attacks. As part of its review of the Companion Animals Act, the Government will act on the recommendations of recent coronial inquiries into fatal dog attacks in NSW.”
The review is guided by three focus areas: encouraging responsible pet ownership, improving how councils enforce the law, and reducing the number of animals entering pounds and rehoming services.
The NSW Government intends to shift the law from a strict, rules-based model to one focused on outcomes. This approach would allow councils to respond more flexibly to individual situations while maintaining public safety.
“We can achieve this through education, awareness, modern digital systems, and a robust set of easily understood rules,” Minister Hoenig said. The discussion paper proposes stronger incentives for responsible pet ownership and better education to prevent safety issues.
The Government will also consider findings from recent Parliamentary inquiries into NSW pounds, the veterinary workforce, and cat management, as well as a new law governing how unattended animals are handled in public spaces.
Community members and stakeholders can submit feedback to help shape the future of pet ownership laws in NSW. Submissions are open until Sunday 4 May 2025 through the Office of Local Government website.
To stay up to date on the latest industry headlines, sign up to the Pet Industry News e-newsletter.