$1M funding boost for Pets in Crisis program

• Pets in Crisis will receive $1.04 million over five years.
• The extended five-year contract provides certainty and security to the service.
• More DFV victim-survivors will have a safe haven for their pets when fleeing violent relationships.

More pets owned by Queenslanders escaping domestic and family violence (DFV) will find a safe refuge thanks funding by the Palaszczuk Government.

An additional $1.04 million will be provided over five years to the Pets in Crisis program, which is a partnership between the RSPCA and DVConnect.

The program provides safe emergency accommodation and veterinary care for pets until they can be reunited with their owners.

In 2022, the Palaszczuk Government provided $200,000 to the RSPCA for the Pets in Crisis program – double the amount from previous years.

By locking this increased funding over five years, the Palaszczuk Government is providing greater certainty and security to the service.

Quotes attributable to the Attorney-General, Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Yvette D’Ath:

“Sadly, we know domestic and family violence perpetrators can use threats against pets or actual harm to control their partners,” the Minister said.

“For many animal-lovers, pets are part of the family unit and we want to ensure no one feels they need to stay in an abusive situation in order to protect them.

“We know it can be difficult for DFV victim-survivors to find emergency accommodation that can also accommodate animals.

“This funding from the Palaszczuk Government will help ensure Queenslanders experiencing DFV do not feel like they need to sacrifice their safety in order to protect their beloved pets.”

Quotes attributable to the CEO RSPCA Darren Maier:

“Domestic violence and the use of animals as a form of coercive control is a real issue,” he said.

“The demand for our Pets in Crisis program has grown this past year, so continued funding is certainly welcome.

“It means our teams can continue to provide pets a safe haven while owners seek safety themselves.

“Seeing pets reunited after their stay with us and owners safe is what the program is all about.”

Quotes attributable to the CEO of DVConnect Beck O’Connor

“DVConnect commends the government on continuing this funding for the RSPCA and the Pets in Crisis program,” she said.

“The program ensures pets can be safe, healthy and cared for while DVConnect are working with women and children to leave a violent situation.” 

ENDS

Media contact – Ruby Wallace 0415 476 743