RSPCA Victoria encourages the use of the Codes of Practice as a minimum standard when caring for animals.
The Codes of Practice for animal welfare are made under either the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (POCTAA) or the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (DAA).
Codes of Practice set out recommended minimum standards and practices for the keeping of a wide range of species and animal-related activities. They should be read in conjunction with other relevant legislation such as the DAA and POCTAA.
The requirements of all Domestic Animals Act codes are mandatory.
Most Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act codes are advisory only – unless made mandatory through specific recognition in legislation.
