Animal Welfare Act 2002.

This Act, consisting of 94 sections divided into six Parts, provides for the protection of animals by regulating the people who may use animals for scientific purposes and prohibiting cruelty to animals.
The Act prohibits the use of, and carrying on businesses supplying animals for scientific purposes without a licence issued by the Minister. Licence conditions and licencee’s requirements are outlined in the text. Part 3 provides for Welfare, safety and health of animals; the objects of this Part are (a) to promote and protect the welfare, safety and health of animals; and (b) to ensure animals are properly and humanely treated, cared for and managed. The Part continues establishisng that Regulations may provide for, authorise, prescribe, require, prohibit, restrict or otherwise regulate the following (a) the treatment, care and handling of animals; (b) animal accommodation; (c) the transportation of animals; (d) the keeping of animals; (e) the husbandry of animals; (f) the identification of animals; (g) the medical or surgical treatment of animals; (h) facilities and equipment used in relation to animals; (i) the destruction and slaughtering of animals; (j) the control of animals, including pest animals; (k) farming or grazing activities; (l) the management of zoos, wildlife parks or similar establishments; (m) the management of animal breeding establishments; (n) the training of animals; (o) the sale of animals; (p) the use of animals for commercial, recreational or other purposes; (q) the qualifications and experience of persons dealing with animals. Among the defenses the Act identifies: veterinary care, control of pests, stock fending, ect.
The Act further provides for: offences against cruelty to animals; appointment of inspectors and their functions and powers; and offences.