Victorian animal welfare organisations can now apply for a share of $1.6 million in government funding to provide lower cost pet care services.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence launched Round 12 of the Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program today at Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) in Craigieburn. The program offers substantial funding to community veterinary hospitals and animal rehoming organisations to upgrade facilities, purchase medical equipment, provide low-cost veterinary services and support rehoming initiatives.
The Allan Labor Government’s investment aims to increase access to affordable veterinary care for Victorian families while helping more pets find permanent homes.
Animal Welfare Fund Grants
- $1.6 million in funding for community veterinary hospitals and animal rehoming organisations
- Applications open until 25 March 2025
- More info here
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SCAR has been a significant beneficiary of the program, receiving over $560,000 in government investment since opening in 2008. The funding has helped the organisation fit out its animal hospital and provide essential veterinary and rehoming services. Operating as a community animal hospital, shelter, education hub and cat boarding facility, SCAR has rescued more than 10,000 animals with support from hundreds of foster carers and volunteers.
“Pets hold a special place in our hearts – these grants will help Victorians feeling the pinch of cost-of-living keep their furry companions happy and healthy for less,” said Minister Spence. “We’re making sure services like Second Chance Animal Rescue can continue to make a real difference, helping animals find their forever homes.”
The latest round of funding continues the government’s substantial investment in animal welfare, with more than $11.4 million distributed across 214 shelters, carers and animal welfare organisations throughout Victoria. Additionally, the Victorian Budget 2023/24 allocated an extra $5 million to support pet rescue and rehoming, including $2 million specifically earmarked for improving access to veterinary care.
SCAR CEO and Founder Marisa Debattista highlighted the importance of the funding for organisations providing essential animal care services.
“Second Chance Animal Rescue not only rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes homeless companion animals, but we also support vulnerable pet owners through tough times,” Debattista explained. “This funding will assist organisations such as ours to improve our equipment and facilities which will help us to continue to provide the best and most-affordable care for Victoria’s much-loved furry friends.”
Member for Greenvale Iwan Walters emphasised the program’s dual benefits for local organisations and community members. “We are backing wonderful local organisations like Second Chance Animal Rescue and supporting residents in our communities who need access to affordable healthcare for their pets,” said Walters.
The Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program represents a significant commitment to improving animal welfare across Victoria while addressing cost-of-living pressures for pet owners. Eligible organisations have until 25 March to submit their applications for Round 12 funding.
For more information, head here.
