State Government funding boost for RSPCA

26/11/04
A $250,000 State Government grant to the RSPCA (WA) has fulfilled a $1million Labor election commitment.
Local Government Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich said the grant, which would be used by the RSPCA in its education programs and law enforcement activities, acknowledged the importance of animal welfare and protection.
"In response to an RSPCA request, we have agreed some of the funding can be used to help enforce and prosecute serious breaches to the Animal Welfare Act 2002, "Ms Ravlich said.
"The funds were originally promised to support an education and community awareness campaign promoting responsible animal ownership and appropriate treatment and respect for animals.
"Our Government's four successive balanced Budgets have enabled us to establish and maintain a $1million commitment to the RSPCA.
"We are the first State Government to provide ongoing funding to the organisation."
The Minister said the Gallop Government's introduction of a new Animal Welfare Act sent a clear message that the State Government would get tough on people who mistreated animals.
"The new Act is the best in Australia and imposes harsh penalties for those who flout the law," she said.
"For example, the maximum penalty for a person found guilty of being cruel to an animal increased from $5,000 and one year in prison to $50,000 and imprisonment for five years."
Ms Ravlich urged continued community support for the RSPCA.
"The RSPCA remains an independent and volunteer-based organisation and it relies on the support of the community to be able to do its important work," she said.
Minister's office: 9213 6500

Geraldton MLA Shane Hill, President of Friends of the RSPCA Geraldton Aucillary, CEO RSPCA (WA) Steve Vanstan and Vice President David Brockway and Local Government Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich.