Putting animals first: The case for an Independent Office of Animal Protection.

In this speech, Hon Amanda Dorn MLC outlines her Animal Welfare Amendment (Chief Animal Protection Officer) Bill 2025, which seeks to establish an Independent Office of Animal Protection in WA.

Amanda highlights serious shortcomings in the current system, including fragmented responsibilities, inadequate resourcing and conflicts of interest, particularly where agencies oversee both animal welfare and industries that use animals commercially.

The Bill proposes an independent Chief Animal Protection Officer, reporting directly to Parliament, to strengthen transparency and accountability. Amanda argues that animals need dedicated, independent representation within government and a more coordinated approach to their protection across Western Australia.