I am a concerned citizen of Australia, deeply moved by the plight of animals in need. Seeing these innocent creatures suffer due to lack of funding, while other sectors continue to receive increasing support, breaks my heart. It’s time we reassess how we allocate our tax dollars—redirecting support toward those who cannot speak for themselves, like the animals under the care of shelters such as Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ).

Animal Welfare League Queensland is a donor-supported not-for-profit charity dedicated to the care, rehabilitation, and rehoming of stray, abandoned, and surrendered animals throughout Queensland. Since 1959, AWLQ has provided a safe haven and a second chance at life for thousands of animals each year, and promises never to euthanise healthy, sociable, or treatable animals in their care. 

In the 2022/23 period alone, AWLQ cared for more than 11,000 stray and homeless animals, reunited many lost pets with their families, and delivered essential community support including affordable veterinary services through their community vet clinics. 

Despite this vital work, AWLQ receives no state or federal government funding for its animal welfare services, relying almost entirely on donations, sponsorships, fundraising activities, and community support to operate.  This means that in times of economic downturn or when charitable giving decreases, these animals are left more vulnerable than ever.

Meanwhile, government spending on prisons and corrective services in Australia continues to increase year after year, with billions of taxpayer dollars allocated to the justice system annually. By contrast, organisations like AWLQ—doing compassionate, life-saving work for voiceless animals—receive little to no direct government support.

By allocating more funding toward animal welfare organisations like Animal Welfare League Queensland, and ensuring sustainable, consistent support for their critical services, we can make our tax dollars work more compassionately and effectively for those who truly need it.

We urge the Australian government to reassess its funding priorities and allocate meaningful support to animal welfare organisations such as AWLQ. Let’s give voiceless animals the care they deserve while ensuring our taxes are put to good use.

Please sign this petition if you believe in this cause as much as I do.