The Andrews Labor Government is supporting not-for-profit organisations and volunteers to improve the wellbeing of Victorian pets and animal owners through Animal Welfare Grants.

Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region Shaun Leane MP today welcomed the announcement of recipients in the latest round of grants, with two organisations in the Eastern Metropolitan Region area to share in more than $70,424.00 for programs and facilities for pets.

Eastern Domestic Violence Service (EDVOS) run a program called Vets Against Violence, The project will roll out training to vets. The ‘Vets Against Violence’ training seeks to address the growing need in the community for responses to animal and pet abuse in family violence cases.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Victoria) have a program Regional High Volume Desexing and Community Behaviour Change. This project involves working with a community to design and implement a sustainable model for managing stray cat populations and optimising responsible cat ownership with a focus on high volume desexing.

The Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program commenced in 2012 in recognition of the outstanding services delivered across Victoria by not-for-profit organisations, and the significant role animals play in the lives of Victorians.

The fund is an important part of the Labor Government’s commitment to ensure volunteer organisations have the resources they need to assist and care for animals, wherever they are based.

The Government has committed a further $3 million to support not-for-profit community vet clinics, animal shelters and foster carers.

Details of the next round of grants will be made available at animalwelfare.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes

“Pets are an important part of the lives of so many Victorians, and we’re lucky to have volunteer organisations who are committed to improving the lives of animals and pet lovers across the state.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Metropolitan Region Shaun Leane MP

“These projects are tackling specific local issues faced by pets and their owners, including Vets Against Violence and Regional High Volume Desexing and Community Behaviour Change in my local electorate, to ensure animals receive the best care no matter where they live.”