Dog welfare reform in Tasmania
The community has spoken.
Back in November 2024, we shared an important update about Tasmania’s plan to modernise its dog welfare laws. The government had just released a Discussion Paper on proposed changes to the Dog Control Act 2000 and Animal Welfare (Dogs) Regulations, and we urged Tasmanians to have their say.
At that time, public consultation was scheduled to close in December. But following strong interest from across the state, the consultation period was extended through to 17 January 2025.
That process is now complete — and the findings are in.
What we’ve learned so far
In April 2025, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) released its Consultation Report, summarising the almost 300 submissions received from individuals, councils, dog owners, breeders, animal welfare organisations (including us), and other community stakeholders.
The report confirms something we’ve known for a long time:
There is broad community support for stronger, clearer, and more enforceable protections for dogs in Tasmania.
While the laws haven’t changed just yet, the government has stated that legislation and regulation updates are now being developed.
Where we go from here
The consultation revealed several consistent themes — and a shared desire to ensure dogs in Tasmania are better protected, wherever they are and whoever they’re with.
A call for stronger breeder regulation
There was near-unanimous concern about the lack of oversight of dog breeding in Tasmania — particularly large-scale and backyard operations.
The majority of respondents supported:
- mandatory licensing and regular inspections
- limits on the number of entire breeding females
- health and genetic testing for breeding dogs
- banning the breeding of dogs with known inherited welfare issues
People were clear: Tasmania must act to prevent puppy farming, not just respond once harm has already been done.
Traceability and accountability
Tasmanians want to know where dogs come from — and who is responsible for them.
There was strong support for:
- microchipping by 12 weeks (or earlier)
- ensuring breeders are listed on the microchip
- centralised record-keeping to track breeders and litters
- tougher consequences for those who don’t comply
As an organisation that sees the outcome when traceability fails, we know how vital this is.
Improved housing, care and enrichment
Submissions highlighted that dogs need more than just the basics. There were calls for better standards — and better enforcement — around:
- kennel size, bedding, temperature control, and ventilation
- daily exercise, especially for dogs in group housing or long-term care
- mental stimulation and positive socialisation
- better management of transport stress across road, air and sea
A one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. People supported more flexible rules that consider different breeds, needs, and living situations — but no less protection for any dog.
E-collars and controversial tools
Electric collars (e-collars) were one of the more divisive topics. Many submissions called for an outright ban, citing welfare risks and the potential for misuse. Others argued for tightly controlled use in specific rural or livestock situations.
What most agreed on:
- e-collars should never be used for punishment
- if allowed, they must be used under professional guidance
- training and regulation must be enforced
So, what’s next?
The Department has confirmed that drafting of the updated laws is now underway. This is a critical step — and one we’ll be watching closely.
There is no updated legislation yet. But the message from the community is clear:
- We want laws that reflect modern animal welfare standards
- We want rules that are clear, fair, and enforceable
- And we want to protect dogs from harm before it happens, not after
We’ll keep you posted as legislation develops — subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed.
