Changes to the Animal Protection Act 2018

On 1 November 2022, the new Animal Protection Regulations 2022 came into place to support the Animal Protection Act 2018.

These have replaced the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and will help to strengthen animal protection and welfare in the Northern Territory.

This includes the rights, roles and responsibilities for government, industry and the community.

What these changes mean

These changes mean:

• tighter regulations for animal welfare and handling
• new requirements for transporting dogs safely in vehicles
• greater power for animal welfare officers including stronger penalties for inadequate care
• registrations will be required to use animals for teaching or research, instead of a licence.

They aim to ensure animals are treated humanely by preventing animal cruelty and promoting community awareness on animal care and protection.

These laws also help to regulate teaching and research activities involving animals for scientific purposes.

More information

Read more about animal welfare, or find out how to report animal cruelty or neglect.