We, the undersigned, urge the Australian and Victorian governments to take immediate action to support registered not-for-profit animal rescues by providing essential funding, mandating desexing, and offering low-cost desexing services year-round across all councils and shires.

  Why This Matters:

1. Funding for Registered Rescues: 

   Registered not-for-profit rescues are vital in saving the lives of countless animals, yet they often struggle to survive financially without government support or access to grants. Many rescues are drowning under the weight of financial burdens as they manage overflow from pounds and councils that receive funding but fail to provide adequate veterinary care. This means rescues are left to shoulder the hefty costs of saving these innocent lives.

2. Financial Strain Leading to Shutdowns: 

   Many reputable rescues are facing closure due to financial difficulties. These organizations are run by dedicated volunteers who pour their own money into the cause, yet they receive little to no recognition for their tireless work. Innocent lives are being lost because rescues cannot continue to operate under such financial strain.

3. Mandatory Desexing: 

   To combat the ongoing crisis of stray and abandoned animals, desexing must be made mandatory. This is a crucial step towards reducing the number of unwanted litters and ultimately decreasing the population of animals in need of rescue.

4. Accessible Low-Cost Desexing Programs: 

   Low-cost desexing should be available year-round in every council and shire. Many families are struggling with the rising cost of living and are unable to afford veterinary expenses. By providing accessible and affordable desexing options, we can alleviate the burden on rescues and help control the population of stray animals.

5. Turning a Blind Eye to Suffering: 

   The government has been turning a blind eye to the plight of cats and other animals dying on the streets and the colonies that continue to grow unabated. We are witnessing a devastating increase in the number of surrendered animals due to financial hardships, and the current system is unable to handle the overwhelming need.

Our Plea:

We call upon our government to:

- Provide funding or grants for registered not-for-profit rescues to help cover their operational costs and veterinary expenses.

- Mandate desexing for cats and dogs to control the population and reduce the number of abandoned and stray animals.

- Implement low-cost desexing programs available year-round in all councils and shires to ensure that every pet owner can afford to desex their animals.

It is time for action. We can no longer allow innocent lives to be lost while good rescues drown in debt and struggle to meet the overwhelming demand for their services. We urge you to take these steps to support animal welfare across Australia.

Sign our petition to show your support for a brighter future for all animals in need!