The ACT Government has delivered over $300,000 of additional funding to the RSPCA ACT to boost animal management and welfare services with new equipment to better resource the shelter.
“Each year funding is provided to the RSPCA for the delivery of animal management and welfare services and I am pleased that this year we are able to provide additional funding for the RSPCA to continue to meet its demanding workload and further enhance its level of service.” Chief Minister Andrew Barr commented “The RSPCA play a vital role in the welfare of Canberra’s animals and we want to ensure they are best equipped to continue caring and finding homes for thousands of animals each year.”
“I look forward to continuing to work with and collaborate with RSPCA on the delivery of best practice animal welfare and management in Canberra.” Minister for City Services, Chris Steel commented “The RSPCA works collaboratively with Domestic Animal Services and we will explore whether co-location of both facilities will improve animal welfare and provide benefits for both organisations.”

Minister Steel explained that the new and modernised kennel facilities and a dental x-ray machine will be funded, as well as longer term planning for a much-needed upgrade of facilities. This will ensure the Territory’s animals continue to be cared for in a comfortable and safe environment and to provide staff and volunteers with a modern, fit-for-purpose facility. The Minister went on to add that the shelter in Weston has been the home of the RSPCA for over 60 years since its formation in 1955. The planning study will assess options to upgrade the current site or relocate to a purpose-built facility in a different location as well as looking at new ways for the RSPCA to deliver services that complement those provided by Domestic Animal Services. This could include co-locating the RSPCA and DAS.