Wednesday, 22 June 2022

Department of Treasury and Finance

Budget papers 2022–23

Mr MEDDICK (Western Victoria) (17:20): It is always a pleasure to speak on the state budget, especially when this year the budget was the most animal friendly in Victorian history. But this did not just happen by coincidence. Here are some of the things that the Animal Justice Party were able to achieve for animals in this year’s budget and the impact that will have.

Ballarat Animal Shelter will receive a brand new purpose-built shelter. Having visited several shelters throughout my work as chair of the Taskforce on Rehoming Pets, I cannot stress enough how huge this will be for companion animals and the community of dedicated rescuers and carers in this region.

Millions have also been secured for plant-based meat production. Plant-based meat is the future. It is climate resilient and kind to animals. This investment will no doubt make Victoria a leader in its production.

Safe Steps is the only 24/7 family violence response centre in Victoria working tirelessly to protect animals and their owners in situations of family violence. In similar work, the Geelong pets in crisis project through Cherished Pets increases the availability of pet-friendly accommodation, making the transition to safe housing inclusive. I am thrilled that both groups have been recognised and supported in this year’s state budget.

Friends of Bats have secured a sprinkler and monitoring system to protect Geelong’s flying fox colony in heat events. For the first time expert bat rescuers will be able to monitor colonies remotely, giving them a better chance of saving these precious lives during extreme heat.

Over the last 10 months rescuers and carers have rescued over 20 koalas in and around the Ballarat region, most with injuries due to vehicle collisions after development decimated their habitat. Support was desperately needed to adequately assess and care for these animals as local carers rapidly reached capacity. I am thrilled that through this budget they have secured funds to aid in the development of a koala-specific hospital as well as funds to properly research and understand Ballarat populations.

Surf Coast Wildlife Shelters and Amaroo Wildlife Shelter have both received vital funds to support their ongoing work protecting our precious native animals.

One of the most significant announcements has been the recognition of animals raised in farming systems. Lamb Care Australia will receive vital funds to aid with vet fees and food for their 2022 rescues. This is absolutely crucial as we enter the cold snap of winter, when the death toll of paddock animals is expected to significantly rise.

I am truly overwhelmed by the support for a trial establishment of three LGBTIQA+ safe spaces, one each in Geelong, the Surf Coast and Ballarat. This is the result of my work to establish a task force involving extensive consultation with individuals and groups impacted by the disproportionately high rate of suicide for LGBTIQA+ youth and a cause very close to my heart. I know that this important funding announcement will literally save lives.

Lastly, there is Victoria’s first-ever pet census. The more we know about our companion animals, the more we can do to protect them. A pet census in Victoria will help us do just that.

This was the most animal-friendly budget, as I said, in Victorian history, thanks to the advocacy of the Animal Justice Party and a government that listens.