In March 2026 My world shattered the day I unexpectedly lost my dog to a silent, aggressive cancer called Hemangiosarcoma. This experience was not only emotionally devastating; it was a physical and mental health crisis that left me unable to function.

Yet, as I grappled with the intense pain, I realised that currently, Australian agencies like Services Australia and WorkSafe don't recognise pet loss as a valid reason for bereavement leave or financial support.

For many, the death of a companion animal is the loss of a family member, yet our laws offer zero support. 

Losing a companion animal is a significant emotional event, yet national laws fail to recognise it.

 THE PROPOSES FOR THIS PETITION ARE

1.  Currently, employees in Australia are forced to use their annual leave or work through their grief, depriving them of the necessary time to heal after losing a beloved pet. 

I propose that the Australian government  amend the Fair Work Act 2009 to include bereavement leave for all workers after the death of a companion animal.

2. I propose that Services Australia introduce  a ONE-OFF Crisis Payment for

those on income support to help with the financial costs after the death of their companion animal.

Additionally, the financial burden is substantial. With pet cremation and end-of-life costs now ranging from $300 to over $1,200, these expenses create a significant crisis for low-income earners and those already reliant on Centrelink.

For vulnerable people, seniors and those living alone a pet is often their primary source of emotional support.

 The sudden loss of this companion can lead to serious psychological distress, including anxiety and depression and prolonged grief disorder.

Statistics show that over 60% of Australian households now have pets, underscoring their importance in our lives as family members and companions.

 The emotional trauma of losing a pet can be comparable to losing a family member and research highlights the profound impact this loss has on our mental health.

The current lack of recognition and support is not just an oversight but a pressing humanitarian issue.

It’s time for change. No Australian should have to choose between their financial stability and the time needed to grieve a pet's loss.

This petition calls for legal recognition and support during such a traumatic experience in someone's life.

PLEASE SIGN THIS PETITION  to show your support for ALL AUSTRALIANS coping with the loss of their COMPANION ANIMALS!!