The South Australian Government is consulting on key elements required to implement the new breeder licensing scheme under the Dog and Cat Management reforms.
As the Government has stated, it is:
“now consulting on key fertile female limits, draft regulations and proposed standards and guidelines, an important step in the implementation of the overall breeder licensing scheme.”
The Australian Veterinary Association is preparing a formal submission and is seeking targeted feedback from members to help shape our response.
What is in scope?
This consultation – and AVA’s submission – focuses on the implementation detail of the breeder licensing scheme, specifically:
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Draft standards and guidelines
Proposed minimum standards relating to the care, management, housing, breeding, and welfare of dogs and cats. -
Proposed fertile female limits
Limits on the number of fertile female dogs and cats that may be kept or bred, including how these limits are defined and applied. -
Draft regulations
Regulatory and administrative settings governing breeder licensing, compliance, enforcement, and definitions.
AVA’s submission will focus on animal welfare outcomes, evidence-based standards, and practical implementation considerations within this defined scope.
Why AVA is seeking member input
Decisions made at this stage will directly affect:
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Animal welfare outcomes in breeding settings
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How standards and limits operate in practice
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Regulatory clarity and enforceability
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The role of veterinary expertise and oversight
Veterinary input is critical to ensuring the final framework is workable, proportionate, and grounded in contemporary animal welfare science and clinical experience.
How to provide input to AVA
AVA members are invited to review the South Australian Government’s consultation materials and provide feedback to inform AVA’s submission.
The Government’s consultation page includes:
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Draft regulations
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Proposed standards and guidelines
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Explanatory materials
Members are encouraged to focus feedback on:
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Practical implications of the proposed standards
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The appropriateness of the proposed fertile female limits
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Any unintended consequences or implementation challenges
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Animal welfare risks or benefits identified
Member feedback to AVA is requested by Monday 2 February 2026 to allow time for consolidation and drafting ahead of the Government’s submission deadline of 13 February 2026.
Email all feedback to george.bath@ava.com.au
Next steps
AVA will collate member input and lodge a submission addressing the draft standards and guidelines, proposed fertile female limits, and draft regulations.