Animals are sentient beings that can feel pain and suffer—but South Australian law still fails to fully recognise the rights of animals. Although the Greens are the only party in Parliament consistently standing up for animal’s welfare, the system continues to neglect both the survival of species and the protection of individual animals.
From habitat destruction to cruelty in industries that exploit animals, the evidence is clear: we have a responsibility to act. Human activities are causing immense suffering, and it’s time we prioritised policies that minimise harm and improve the lives of animals.
While other parties remain silent, the Greens are leading the fight to ensure animals are treated with the respect and care they deserve.
The Greens will:
- Dedicate funding to protecting and restoring marine species after the algal bloom
- Increase funding to protect endangered and vulnerable species
- Establish an independent Commissioner for Animal Welfare
- Ban duck shooting and greyhound racing
- Phase out factory farming, including battery hen farming and sow stalls
Explore Our Plan
- Dedicate Funding to Protecting and Restoring Marine Species After the Algal Bloom
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South Australia's recent algal bloom has had devastating effects on marine ecosystems, killing fish and threatening biodiversity. The Greens will advocate for fully-funded program to rehabilitate affected habitats, support marine research, and restore populations of vulnerable species. This includes emergency response measures, long-term monitoring, and collaboration with scientists and coastal communities to prevent future ecological disasters.
- Increase Funding to Protect Endangered and Vulnerable Species
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South Australia is home to many unique species now facing extinction due to habitat loss, climate change, and human activity. The Greens will push for increased investment in conservation programs, habitat restoration, and wildlife corridors. Funding will also support Indigenous-led conservation initiatives and scientific research to ensure species recovery is guided by evidence and respect for Country.
- Establish an Independent Commissioner for Animal Welfare
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Animal welfare must be overseen by a body that is truly independent and empowered to act. The Greens propose the creation of a Commissioner for Animal Welfare—free from political interference—with the authority to investigate cruelty, enforce standards, and advocate for stronger protections. The current Animal Welfare Advisory Committee is a body that has no funding other than in-kind support from the department, is appointed by the Minister. It’s time we have a funded, independent Commissioner who can advocate for animals without political interference.
This role would ensure transparency, accountability, and a consistent voice for animals in government decision-making.
- Phase Out Factory Farming and Ban Battery Hen Farming & Sow Stalls
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Factory farming subjects animals to extreme confinement and suffering. Shocking images continue to emerge showing the disgraceful conditions endured by factory farmed animals. Battery cages and sow stalls deny animals the ability to move freely, express natural behaviours, or live with dignity. The Greens will work to phase out these practices, support farmers in transitioning to humane and sustainable systems, and ensure consumers have access to ethically produced food.
- Ban Duck Shooting and Greyhound Racing
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Duck shooting and greyhound racing are industries built on cruelty. Duck shooting causes immense suffering to native waterbirds, while greyhound racing is plagued by injuries, neglect, and the killing of dogs deemed unprofitable. The Greens will fight to ban both practices, aligning South Australia with growing public sentiment and global trends toward ethical treatment of animals. Exemptions will be established for First Nations cultural hunting practices.