The Australian Government has committed $5 million over 4 years (2023-2027) to the renewal of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy (AAWS).
A renewed AAWS will provide a framework for a national approach to animal welfare and bring key stakeholders together on animal welfare issues of national significance.
The previous strategy lapsed in 2014. The renewal of the AAWS establishes Australia’s commitment to modern, sustainable, evidence and science-based welfare practice.
The development of the renewed AAWS will be jointly led by the Australian, and state and territory governments, built on a principles-based framework, and informed by engagement and feedback received during consultation. The final AAWS will be released in 2027.
Keep up to date with the latest news on the renewal of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy.
Subscribe to receive the first edition of The AAWS Connection.
Explore the strategy
National Statement on Animal Welfare
The National Statement on Animal Welfare and case studies showcasing positive and sustainable animal welfare outcomes.
The renewed AAWS
Learn more about what we are delivering and why it's important for animal welfare in Australia.
Roadmap toward renewal
Learn more about how we plan to develop the strategy.
Get involved
Learn more about what we’ve heard from consultation so far and how to stay involved.
Governance
Our governance and reporting structures.
AAWS News
Stay up to date on news about the renewal of the AAWS.
Explore the AAWS artwork
Cowal Makiya
The Australian Government commissioned artwork for the renewal of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy (AAWS), titled Cowal Makiya, the Mayi-Yapi word for “today’s land”.
Cowal Makiya was created by artist Leah Cummins, a proud Mayi woman from North-Western Queensland.
This vibrant piece showcases the six animal group chapters in the AAWS, highlights cultural connections to animals and promotes respect for traditional knowledge.
Mayi-Yapi is a language of the Mayi Nations of the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Artwork story
This artwork is inspired by the Australian environment, ever-changing landscape and animals. In the centre are the innovations and technologies used for centuries to hunt and protect the environment; the footprints represent the animals that make Australia unique.
From the land to the waterways, the lasting connections to the animals and environment where the research and information is gathered is a journey into the future learnings of how to make the Australian agricultural future stronger.
The resilience of the animals that exist from the lands, to the animals introduced, all play a vital role in keeping this country prospering.
