Victorians living in retirement villages will soon have greater rights to keep pets, following the passage of the Retirement Villages Amendment Bill 2024 through both houses of Parliament.
The new law, which will take effect on 1 May 2026, prevents retirement villages from enforcing rules that “unreasonably limit the keeping of a pet on a resident’s premises.”
Companion Animal Network Australia (CANA) has welcomed the change as a “significant and compassionate win for the rights and wellbeing of older Australians and their companion animals.”
Trish Ennis, CEO of CANA, said they are thrilled to see this amendment pass with unanimous support in the Victorian Parliament.
“This sends a powerful message that companion animals matter as a member of the family.”
The reform comes amid concerns about low levels of pet-friendly aged care in Australia. According to CANA’s 2023 survey, only 18 per cent of aged care facilities allow pets, and just 9 per cent of older pet owners receiving Home Care Packages are permitted to keep animals.
“Pet surrenders due to life changes, such as moving into aged care or struggling to meet a pet’s needs, continue to rise,” Ennis said. “Many older Australians lose not only a cherished companion but also the daily joy, comfort and sense of purpose that a pet provides.”
The amendment was introduced by Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell, who said in Parliament: “It is unacceptable that older Victorians can be forced to choose between keeping a pet they love and finding a retirement community that they love.”
Purcell described the reform as a “fair balance” that would help end “restrictive and often unnecessary rules” imposed as a matter of policy or convenience.
“For many older people, especially those living alone, animals are not just companions, they are a lifeline,” she said.
CANA congratulated all parliamentarians involved and is now urging other state and territory governments to follow Victoria’s lead.
“This is not just a Victorian issue, it’s a national one,” said Ennis. “Research consistently shows that pets help reduce loneliness, lower stress and improve cardiovascular and mental health – factors especially vital for older Australians.”
CANA is also inviting public participation in its 2025 Pet Friendly Aged Care Survey, open now at petfriendlyagedcare.com.au/surveys.
“By participating in the survey, you are helping advocate for policies that allow older Australians to continue experiencing the companionship of their beloved pets,” Ennis said.
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