Animal Welfare
All animals in NSW are protected by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (NSW). This act applies at all times to and deals with the cruel and unconscionable treatment of all animals.
In addition to this, animals used in teaching or research of any kind in NSW are protected by special legislation, the Animal Research Act 1985 (NSW). This Act was introduced to ensure that whenever animals are used for teaching or research, it is justified, humane and considerate of the animal’s needs. It covers the use of animals in all primary or secondary schools, government or non-government.
To assist NSW schools in meeting their obligations under this legislation there is an appointed Animal Welfare in Schools Advisor who works across the government and non-government schools.
The Animals in Schools website was re-launched in January 2023.