General Inspectors

Within the Animal Welfare Act 2002, power is provided for the appointment of General Inspectors to enforce the proper, humane care and management of animals. Under this Act, General Inspectors have powers to search and enter, as well as seize animals if they suspect the animals are being treated in an inappropriate manner.

The Act also provides for General Inspectors to issue Direction Notices for the provisions of any food, water, shelter, care or treatment they consider necessary to ensure and protect the welfare, safety and health of the animal. 

The Animal Welfare Act 2002

The Animal Welfare Act 2002 and the supporting regulations, govern the treatment and welfare of animals in Western Australia. The Act has some of Australia's most severe penalties for cruelty offences, and this has been welcomed by many West Australians.

The Act :

• Applies to all vertebrate animals In W.A (except fish)
• Has high penalties, (from $2000 to $50,000 and 5 years imprisonment)
• Provides for the appointment of General Inspectors with powers to protect animals and appropriately deal with people being cruel to animals.
• Imposes a duty of care on people in charge of an animal.
• Has substantial penalties for offenders caught in possession of devices such as spurs that have been sharpened or have fully fixed rowels.
• Has penalties for organising or spectating at events which involve fighting animals.
• Provides that in addition to fines and imprisonment, the courts may impose orders to protect animals either by seizing an animal or preventing a person from owning or using a particular animal in the future.