❓ Hon Amanda Dorn asks the Minister for Homelessness about the welfare of companion animals living with homeless people, and the support available to them. The Minister acknowledges the issue and outlines the government's approach.
AnsweredQoN 1298Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
Homelessness—Companion animals1298.Hon Amanda Dornto
theMinister for Homelessness:I refer the minister
to the experiences of people living rough in Western Australia who rely on
companion animals for safety, support and connection.(1) Is the minister aware of how many companion
animals are currently living on the streets with their homeless guardians?(2) What is the minister doing to address the
challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness who have companion
animals, including access to crisis accommodation and essential services?(3) Is the minister aware of the importance of
these companion animals to their humans?
theMinister for Homelessness:I refer the minister
to the experiences of people living rough in Western Australia who rely on
companion animals for safety, support and connection.(1) Is the minister aware of how many companion
animals are currently living on the streets with their homeless guardians?(2) What is the minister doing to address the
challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness who have companion
animals, including access to crisis accommodation and essential services?(3) Is the minister aware of the importance of
these companion animals to their humans?
AnswerView source ↗
Answered
11 December 2025
Response time
0 days
Hon Matthew Swinbourn replied:I thank the member
for some notice of the question.(1) Data of this kind is not routinely collected.(2) The Cook Labor government's approach to
homelessness is grounded in person-centred evidence-based support that
recognises the diverse needs of individuals, including those with companion
animals. Where appropriate and practicable, some crisis and supported
accommodation services can accept therapeutic support animals alongside
clients. Additionally, a number of programs will consider domestic pets and
companion animals on a case-by-case basis, taking into account service
dynamics, safety requirements and the nature of the accommodation.(3) Yes, I am aware of and recognise the
significant role that pets play in supporting individuals who are experiencing
homelessness.
Homelessness—Companion animals
for some notice of the question.(1) Data of this kind is not routinely collected.(2) The Cook Labor government's approach to
homelessness is grounded in person-centred evidence-based support that
recognises the diverse needs of individuals, including those with companion
animals. Where appropriate and practicable, some crisis and supported
accommodation services can accept therapeutic support animals alongside
clients. Additionally, a number of programs will consider domestic pets and
companion animals on a case-by-case basis, taking into account service
dynamics, safety requirements and the nature of the accommodation.(3) Yes, I am aware of and recognise the
significant role that pets play in supporting individuals who are experiencing
homelessness.
Homelessness—Companion animals
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