PetRescue and Lucy’s Project collaborate on the Family Law Amendment Bill 2024 submission to improve safety for people and pets

PetRescue united with national charity Lucy’s Project to create a joint submission and letters of support to advocate for changes to the law to help protect people and pets and to recognise pets as part of the family. The Family Law Amendment Bill 2024 submission aimed to deliver a simpler, safer and fairer family law system to better protect people and pets.

We know that pets are deeply loved members of the family and provide invaluable comfort and emotional support, especially for pet guardians experiencing domestic violence or other trauma. Sadly, pets are too often used in cycles of family violence. 

Outcome

The new Family Law Amendment Bill means that courts will now consider a range of factors, including violence towards people and animals when determining guardianship of pets, to better protect everyone in the family.

Thank you to Lucy’s Project, as well as the survivors of family violence who have bravely and tirelessly advocated for this change. 

Lucy’s Project is a national charity that aims to improve the safety of people and animals experiencing domestic and family violence.

Banner image credit: Arina Krasnikova via Pexels