Tasmanian law change keeps pets where they belong
New tenancy laws mean renters will no longer have to choose between keeping their beloved pets and finding a safe home.
For too many Tasmanians, the distressing choice between keeping a loved pet and securing a home has been all too real. We at Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania have witnessed this first-hand — in recent times, up to 15 % of dogs surrendered to our service cited rental restrictions as the reason.
Today we welcome with relief and hope the passage of the Residential Tenancy Amendment (Pets) Bill 2025 by the Tasmanian Parliament. Under the law, effective early 2026, renters will no longer face blanket “no pets” policies: landlords must respond within two weeks or allow the pet, and rejection must be on reasonable grounds, with recourse to the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT).
For us at Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania, this reform aligns directly with our mission — helping keep families and their dogs together, and reducing the number of pets surrendered due to housing stress. Pets are part of the family. A roof over one’s head should never mean giving up your companion.
Just like any other member of a household — child, adult, or pet — tenants share a responsibility to ensure their home is respected and well cared for. We don’t believe this reform changes that responsibility; it simply recognises pets as part of the family who belong in a home, not excluded from one.
We know how much pets matter. They offer companionship, comfort, and joy — especially in times of stress and loneliness. For older Tasmanians, they bring purpose and routine; for children, they teach empathy and responsibility; and for people living alone, they provide connection and love. Every Tasmanian, regardless of age, income, or housing status, should have the chance to experience the unconditional companionship of a pet.
We thank everyone who has advocated for this change: community groups, the Tenants’ Union of Tasmania, the real estate sector, and thousands of Tasmanians who shared their stories.
We look forward to a future where no dog has to be surrendered simply because their owner cannot secure pet-friendly accommodation. That future is now closer.
