With the federal election fast approaching on May 3, political parties and candidates are releasing their policies on a wide range of issues—but animal welfare is often left off the agenda.
That’s why the Australian Alliance for Animals has launched its Federal Election Scorecard campaign: to secure animal welfare commitments from the parties and help Australians identify which candidates share their values. In the lead-up to the election, the Alliance has asked parties for their stance on six key reforms that would improve the lives of millions of animals in Australia. The newly released policy scorecards reveal where parties and candidates stand on each issue.
AFSA proudly endorses this campaign and we’re calling on our supporters to help amplify its impact. Four of the key issues directly align with AFSA’s mission. This is our moment to influence decision-makers and demand accountability.
Key Issues & Relevance to AFSA
1. Protecting the Live Sheep Export Phase Out 🐑
Ending live sheep exports is a crucial step toward reducing the suffering of farm animals. Too often, industry-funded research is used to justify the continuation of live exports, rather than genuinely improve animal welfare. Similarly, in biomedical research, industry interests can overshadow ethical considerations. A smooth and timely phase-out of live exports could reduce the demand for harmful research on farm animals conducted to support the trade.
2. Establishing a National Animal Welfare Commission ⚖️
Industries that profit from the use of animals have far too much influence over welfare policies. This is especially evident in animal research, where agriculture departments often oversee studies that prioritise productivity over welfare. Even more concerning, the same government bodies that regulate research are frequently responsible for investigating ethical breaches—raising serious concerns about accountability. Establishing a truly independent commission would ensure more rigorous, transparent and fair oversight across all sectors.
3. Funding the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy 💰
The federal government has committed five million dollars over four years (2023-2027) to renew the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy—but no budget allocation has been made for its implementation. The strategy includes important provisions for animals used in research and teaching, such as national reporting on animal use and investment in humane, non-animal alternatives. Without proper funding, these much-needed reforms won’t become a reality.
4. Expanding DGR Status to Animal Advocacy Charities 🔬
Under current tax laws, only charities that provide direct care for animals are eligible for Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status—excluding organisations like AFSA that focus on driving systemic change. This makes it harder for advocacy groups to raise funds, secure grants and sustain their work. Extending DGR eligibility would strengthen the entire animal protection movement by enabling groups like AFSA to continue pushing for non-animal research alternatives.
FYI: Other Issues
5. Creating an Animal Welfare Trade Policy: Stopping the international sale of products linked to significant animal suffering.
6. Extending the Trophy Hunting Ban: Preventing the trade of animal remains from cruel hunting practices.
How You Can Help
- Educate: Find out where the parties stand on key animal welfare reforms to help guide your vote on 3 May.
- Spread the Word: Share the scorecards and campaign posts on social media and tag your local MP.
- Engage with Candidates: Look for opportunities in your community to let them know animals matter to you–no formal meeting required!
Bonus Action: Ask your local candidate if they support phasing out primate research or federal funding for a primate sanctuary. Share their response with us to help identify allies and raise awareness. 🐒 Need some guidance before speaking with your candidate? Contact AFSA–our Primate Campaign Consultant is happy to help!
Together, we can ensure that animal welfare isn’t ignored this election. Let’s hold politicians accountable and push for lasting change!