Animal rescue and rehoming organisations across NSW can now apply for a share of $1.5 million in state government funding to help care for vulnerable cats and dogs and find them safe new homes.
Round 2 of the NSW Government’s Companion Animal Welfare and Rehoming Grant Program opened on Thursday, 17 September, with designated rehoming organisations and registered animal welfare charities able to apply for grants of between $5,000 and $50,000. Applications close on 9 October.
The program provides $6 million over four years, with $1.5 million available each year to support the care and rehoming of vulnerable dogs and cats across the state. Last year, 58 organisations shared in $1.5 million through the program, helping them improve facilities, provide veterinary care and support animals being prepared for rehoming.
Funding can be used for desexing, microchipping and vaccinations, animal training and rehabilitation, facility upgrades, community education programs and emergency support during natural disasters.
Rehoming organisations and animal welfare charities play a critical role across NSW. Many rely heavily on volunteers to care for vulnerable animals, reduce pressure on council pounds and help dogs and cats find new homes.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said rehoming organisations saved lives every day.
“They give vulnerable cats and dogs a second chance, while taking pressure off council pounds right across NSW,” Mr Hoenig said.
“I’ve seen firsthand, travelling around the state, just how much these organisations achieve, often with very limited resources.
“Many are run by dedicated volunteers who give their time, their money and an enormous amount of care to animals that have nowhere else to go.
“They do it because they believe every animal deserves a chance.
“That’s why this funding matters. It will help rehoming organisations continue the essential work they do, caring for animals, finding them safe and loving homes, and helping councils manage pressure on pounds across NSW.”
Mr Hoenig said organisations that received funding in the last round could apply again, and he strongly encouraged them to do so.
“I encourage every eligible rehoming organisation and charity to apply,” he said.
Information on how to apply is available on the NSW Government grants and funding website.
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