RSPCA Australia animals charter

RSPCA Australia mission statement, vision and objectives

Five freedoms for animals

Policy statements

RSPCA Australia policies are a collection of straightforward statements or declarations of RSPCA policy on a particular animal welfare matter. They are usually short and concise and include a clear description and a brief rationale of the basis for the policy. Some policy statements are externally focused, that is they represent the RSPCA’s views on the treatment of animals in the wider community. Other polices are internally focused, that is they refer to actions undertaken by the RSPCA itself, but provide a benchmark for other organisations carrying out similar activities.
Policy statements are adopted, or later amended, on the unanimous vote of the RSPCA National Council after consultation with member Societies, and following the recommendation of the Policy Review Committee or other working group. Compliance with policy statements is binding on all member Societies.

A Companion animals

B Farm animals

C Animals used for sport, entertainment, recreation and work

D Research animals

E Wildlife

F Transportation of animals

G Humane killing

H Miscellaneous

Download all policy statements in a single document (PDF format)

Position papers

In addition to policies, the RSPCA National Council also issues position papers on particular issues of interest. A position paper is an explanatory document and is intended to be more comprehensive than an RSPCA policy on a particular topic or subject. The aim is to provide a more complete understanding of the subject involved and the rationale behind the position taken.

Position papers are adopted, or later amended, in the majority vote of the RSPCA National Council if they concern issues relating to existing, adopted polices, or on the unanimous vote of National Council if the position is outside adopted policies.