The new legislation, which includes rules making it easier for tenants to keep pets in rental homes, comes into effect on 19 May.
Companion Animal Network Australia (aka CANA or Australia CAN) welcomes the NSW Minns Labor Government’s rental reforms, wherein tenants will be able to apply to keep a pet in their rental home. Landlords will only be able to refuse for certain reasons, such as the owner living at the property or failure to comply with local council laws.
There’s a standard application form and process to make the system clearer and more efficient for both renters and owners. There will also be an automatic approval if owners do not respond to pet applications within 21 days.
“Australia’s rental and housing crisis is already placing enormous pressure on people, and it’s even tougher for those with pets,” said Trish Ennis, CEO of CANA, which covers the work of five member agencies across the country, including Sydney Dogs and Cats Home. “Too many renters are being forced to make the heartbreaking choice between keeping their beloved companion animals or having a roof over their heads.“
According to Ennis, the NSW government’s rental reforms signify “a very good improvement” that will help curb the number of animals being surrendered because of housing issues.
“These changes support the goals of CANA’s Rent with Pets program, which encourages landlords and tenants to work together so that more animals can live in responsible, loving rental homes.”
CANA also shares the concerns of Lucy’s Project, a national charity that works on improving safety for human and animal victims of domestic and family violence.
“We support placing the onus on landlords to apply to the Tribunal if they wish to refuse consent for tenants to keep an animal. We must protect the safety and well-being of both human and animal victim-survivors seeking rental accommodation.”
CANA seeks to work with policymakers, housing providers and animal welfare advocates to provide everyone with a fairer, more compassionate rental market.
Read also: Minns Government pledges $12.5 million to strengthen animal welfare in NSW
Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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