“At least it is now acknowledged by the ALP that we need to raise the bar when it comes to animal cruelty standards," said Marcus Ward, the Greens Animals policy spokesperson and Western Victoria Region Upper House candidate. "The Greens have campaigned long and hard to get the Government moving on animal protection."

"New criminal penalties and extra money for the RSPCA will help reduce animal cruelty, but there is a wide gap between the policy and the action plan," said Marcus Ward. "For example, the ALP has had a policy to ban duck shooting in Victoria since 1991, yet not only has it failed to do this, it is quietly putting the word out in some rural areas that the ALP now supports duck hunting."

"That's why Victorians need the Greens in State Parliament to raise the standard and push the Government to act on its animal protection commitments."

“Just a few days ago, we learnt that an export sheep and cattle ship loaded in Portland last month has been rejected by Israel - which has now suspended all live sheep trade with Australia," said Marcus Ward. "The live animal export trade continues right under the State Government's nose, but the ALP has nothing to say about this continuing cruelty, or the erosion of Australia’s international reputation it is causing.”

“Anybody who is concerned about animal welfare, should not be fooled by a last minute media announcement from the Premier," said Marcus Ward. "The Greens are the only party in this election with a comprehensive and practical plan to protect animals - and the commitment to improve animal welfare in Victoria.”

For more information, please contact:
Marcus Ward on (mob) 0427 235 254
or
Dave Lane on (mob) 0419 156 213.