Make renting animal-friendly
Ending the “no pets” policy for renters
Australia is a country where many people care for companion animals. Around 69% of households have at least one companion animal, including dogs, cats, fish, birds, small mammals, reptiles, and many more. Not only do our companions bring us happiness, but their presence also offers extensive social and health benefits, benefiting individuals and entire communities. Most of the people who have companion animals consider them part of their family, not just belongings. The law, however, treats companion animals as property, which means they don't have the same legal protections as human family members.
Research shows that property rights, human rights, and animal rights are connected. As we delve into the bond between humans and animals, we must confront the disparities in companion animal rights that persist within our society. Recent reforms have been a step in the right direction, but there are still long-standing shortcomings in residential tenancy laws that must be addressed to protect both tenants and their beloved animal companions.
Challenges in residential tenancy laws
Despite the overwhelming evidence demonstrating the value of companion animals in our lives, the right to keep them varies dramatically among households. Finding rental accommodation that allows companion animals is challenging for people of different age groups. Young adults face delays in achieving milestones like education, stable jobs, homeownership, or starting a family. Living with companion animals may seem more feasible than other goals, but it's still tough to negotiate with landlords for ‘pet-friendly’ homes. Older adults also struggle to find long-term housing that accepts companion animals. The lack of options and housing affordability issues raise concerns for economically vulnerable older adults.
Current tenancy laws don't adequately address issues related to domestic violence, abuse, and animal welfare. Recent reforms to NSW residential tenancy laws introduced an optional term for keeping companion animals, giving landlords the power to prohibit them, creating uncertainty and heartache for countless guardians. While the Sustainability Infrastructure Act introduced changes for strata schemes, landlords can still ban animals if they "interfere" with other occupants, further adding to the uncertainty and anguish. These limitations in the current laws not only undermine the human-companion animal relationship but also prevent tenants from providing stable, loving homes for their beloved companions.
A cry for help: euthanasia rates
Unfair rental laws contribute to a heartbreaking reality - euthanasia is the leading cause of death for healthy companion animals in shelters and pounds. The statistics are devastating; each year, around 140,000 cats and dogs are euthanased in Australia. The disparities in dog and cat euthanasia rates are glaring; a higher percentage of cats are euthanased compared to dogs. Cats are often euthanased for being labelled as ‘feral’ or young, while dogs may face the same fate due to ‘behavioural issues’. This heart-wrenching truth highlights the urgent need to address the challenges in our rental laws that contribute to these tragic outcomes.
Creating a brighter future
Our vision for a compassionate society extends beyond companion animal guardianship; it encompasses the very essence of kindness and empathy towards all living beings. By embracing change and advocating for responsible guardianship, we can make a profound impact on the lives of our furry friends and their devoted guardians. Let us create an environment where tenants and landlords stand united in ensuring the happiness and well-being of our cherished companions.
In this journey towards a compassionate society, it is our collective responsibility to advocate for changes in NSW residential tenancy laws. By removing the obstacles that hinder renters from keeping companion animals, we can create an environment that fosters responsible guardianship, compassion, and understanding. The bond between humans and animals is one of the purest forms of love; it enriches our lives and brings joy to our communities. Together, let us pave the way for a brighter future, where the rights of both tenants and landlords are respected, and our furry family members find the love and care they so rightly deserve.
How you can help
It’s time for change. Together, we can create a compassionate society where tenants who care for companion animals can flourish without fear.
We propose revising NSW residential tenancy laws to remove these obstacles and foster responsible companion animal guardianship. Such changes would not only provide greater rental security for tenants but also lead to improved animal welfare outcomes. By empowering tenants to keep their beloved animal companions by default, we can promote responsible guardianship and demonstrate empathy towards tenants who cherish their furry family members. Of course, we must strike a balance that respects the rights of both tenants and landlords, ensuring harmony in our communities.