Animal Welfare Law in Australia

Animal law is a relatively new area of legal study and practice in Australia, a branch of the law that has been developing in major Western countries over the last two decades.  It has rapidly gained respect and legitimacy in law schools around the world, including more recently in Australia.

This course provides an overview of the legal framework governing animal law in Australia, which sets the basic standards and parameters for ethical treatment of animals and for the punishment of crimes against animals. 

The course examines the relevant legislation and key offence provisions in each State and Territory.  It also considers the interaction between animal law and more traditional areas of law including administrative law, criminal law, environmental law, consumer law and constitutional law.

In addition, the module provides a fascinating insight into the philosophical basis underlying animal welfare law.  It also analyses the major problem areas in the existing laws and regulatory framework governing animal welfare in Australia and considers the role of lawyer and the legal profession in animal welfare law.