Page 3949 - Week 11 - Thursday, 26 September 2019
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sentience and reason were reserved for humans. This bill challenges the norm, and it is natural that we should question and be cautious about such a big step in our legislative framework.
I have received many questions from members of the community who are concerned about aspects of this bill. For example, a common perception, or perhaps misconception, was that people will be penalised or punished if they do not walk their dog every day. Many people said, “I’m elderly, I can’t walk my dog every day,” or, “My dog is elderly and not well, and I can’t walk it every day. It would do more harm than good.” These are some of the community issues that need to be talked about with regard to this bill.
At the end of the day the ACT does deserve to have the best animal welfare laws. No-one should be cruel to animals. We agree that animal cruelty is abhorrent, and this bill will crack down on animal cruelty in the ACT. We are supporting the bill today, but I reiterate that, at the operational level, we have some concerns about overreach. As presaged, some amendments will be presented at the detail stage. I will talk about them a bit more at that time.
I would like to thank the minister for arranging a briefing from the directorate, which was very useful in order to answer a number of questions that we had, both from within my staff and from members of the public. I look forward to further discussion during consideration of the proposed amendments to the bill.
MS CHEYNE (Ginninderra) (11.18): Madam Speaker, many Canberrans own a pet. As you are well aware, I am one of them. Many people will be familiar with my Italian greyhound, Bailey, who often gets stopped so that people can pat her. They ask, “What is she?” given how strange she looks. We are often spotted out and about. We regularly enjoy walks around Lake Ginninderra, and she often accompanies me to community events. She is always on a lead unless we are in an off-leash area, which is her preferred location.
But not all dogs enjoy that regular exercise. In fact, not all pets enjoy the very necessities that they rely on their owners to provide, things like ample food and access to water, appropriate shelter and regular exercise, whether that is out and about walking, in a yard or in a home.
Responsible pet owners know that it is a privilege to own a pet. Anyone who has been lucky enough to enjoy the companionship of a dog, cat or another animal understands the indescribable impact they can have on your life. For many of us, animals are more than just pets; they are family. Unfortunately, not all pets are treated with compassion. Unfortunately, some people undermine the privilege that is animal ownership, and, indeed, the benefits and support that animals can and do provide to many members of this community.
I am very proud to support the Animal Welfare Legislation Amendment Bill 2019 today. This is important and substantial legislation that will strengthen our existing animal welfare laws. It includes a suite of measures allowing inspectors to
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