In Australia, the regulation of keeping native animals as pets varies significantly across states and territories. Here’s a breakdown of how different regions manage this practice:
1. New South Wales (NSW)
- Licensing Requirements: In NSW, most native animals require a biodiversity conservation licence to be kept as pets. This includes animals that have been bred in captivity; however, none may be taken from the wild.
- Common Species: Certain native birds, like budgerigars, can be kept without a licence. There are 41 species that can be kept without a permit if bred in captivity.
- Legislation: Governed by the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
2. Queensland (QLD)
- Licensing Requirements: A recreational wildlife licence may be needed under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, depending on the species. Strict conditions apply, prohibiting breeding or selling of wildlife held under the permit.
- Common Species: Some species like black-throated finches and certain types of rainbowfish can be kept without a licence.
3. Victoria (VIC)
- Licensing Requirements: A licence is required for most native wildlife under the Wildlife Act 1975 and Wildlife Regulations 2002. However, some common species can be kept without a permit if sourced legally.
- Common Species: Approximately 45 common species can be kept without a licence, including king quail and blue-tongue lizards.
4. South Australia (SA)
- Licensing Requirements: The Department for Environment and Water regulates pet ownership under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. Many species require a permit to keep in captivity.
- Common Species: Residents can keep various native animals, including sugar gliders and certain reptiles, but must comply with licensing regulations.
5. Western Australia (WA)
- Licensing Requirements: Residents can keep any invertebrate as pets and a limited number of bird species without a licence. A standard licence is required for many reptiles and other native animals.
- Common Species: Specific bird species are allowed without permits, but most require licensing.
6. Northern Territory (NT)
- Licensing Requirements: All native wildlife is protected, requiring permits for keeping protected or prohibited wildlife in captivity.
- Common Species: Some less common species may be kept with appropriate permits.
7. Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
- Licensing Requirements: All native animals are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 2014. A Nature Conservation licence is required for most native species unless they are listed as exempt animals.
- Common Species: Exempt animals may be kept without a licence, but taking them from the wild is illegal.
8. Tasmania (TAS)
- Licensing Requirements: Tasmania has stricter regulations; many native species such as rainbow lorikeets and certain reptiles are banned as pets to prevent ecological issues.
Conclusion
The regulations surrounding keeping native animals as pets in Australia are designed to protect both the animals and their ecosystems. Most states require permits for keeping native species, with specific lists of allowed animals that vary by region. Compliance with these laws is critical to ensure the welfare of the animals and the conservation of biodiversity within Australia. Individuals interested in keeping native species should familiarize themselves with local regulations and ensure they meet all legal requirements before acquiring any animal.
Sources
[1] Native animals as pets – Australian Veterinary Association https://www.ava.com.au/policy-advocacy/policies/unusual-pets-and-avian/native-animals-as-pets/
[2] Keeping native species as pets could save them from extinction. But it’s not that simple – Australian Geographic https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/wildlife/2024/11/should-we-keep-native-species-as-pets/
[3] Also Read https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-is-the-rspcas-view-on-keeping-native-animals-as-pets/
[4] Can native animals be kept as pets? – RSPCA Knowledgebase https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/can-native-animals-be-kept-as-pets/
[5] Native animals as pets | Licences and permits https://www2.environment.nsw.gov.au/licences-and-permits/wildlife-licences/native-animals-as-pets
[6] Licences to control or harm native animals | Licences and permits | Environment and Heritage https://www2.environment.nsw.gov.au/licences-and-permits/wildlife-licences/licences-to-control-or-harm
[7] Native animals as pets – Department for Environment and Water https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/licences-and-permits/wildlife-permits/permit-types/keep-sell-display-native-animals/native-animals-pet
[8] What are the animal welfare laws in Australia? | SBS English https://www.sbs.com.au/language/english/en/article/what-are-the-animal-welfare-laws-in-australia/5pbgd5u1c
