Animal welfare

In Australia, each state or territory has a different way of approaching animal welfare in the film industry.

A code of conduct is a set of rules outlining the rules and responsibilities or proper practices of an individual party or an organisation. The code of conduct for the use of animals in productions is outlined for each state below.

For details or clarity on any points in the code of conduct or questions around ethics and welfare, feel free to contact us directly.

Easy access links for Film Industry professionals:

New South Wales

Screen NSW

Google: Film industry animal safety guidance notes

Google: Code of Practice for the welfare of animals in films and theatrical performances

Essential information when animals are to be used or portrayed in a production & notification form

SA, WA and NT

There is no specific code in either South Australia, Western Australia or Northern Territory for animals used in screen production. Producers are strongly advised to abide by the Victorian Code of Practice for the Welfare of Film Animals.

To be able to state that no animals were harmed in the making of your project:

American Humane monitors animals in filmed media and holds the exclusive right to aware its ‘no animals were harmed’ end credit certification to productions that meet its vigorous standard of care for animal actors. More info here.

What to do if you're concerned about the treatment of animals in film, TV or theatrical performances:

Reach out to an animal welfare organisation such as the RSPCA with your concerns.

Here’s some more information