Animals at events

If your event includes animals for entertainment, display, rides or promotional activities, you are legally and ethically responsible for their safety, welfare and proper management as well as the safety of attendees and staff.

You must confirm with us before you plan any activity involving animals. In most cases, we don't permit petting zoos and similar interactive animal attractions. 

In limited circumstances we may make exceptions with additional conditions attached, such as requiring higher levels of Public Liability Insurance, veterinary certification or enhanced hygiene and barrier controls.

If animals are approved for your event, you must:

• provide evidence of compliance with animal welfare legislation and codes of practice
• humanely house, transport and display animals
• maintain appropriate barriers between animals and the public
• provide hand-washing or sanitising facilities for attendees after animal contact
• give animals access to food, water, shade and rest
• prepare an emergency plan for animal-related incidents (for example escape, injury, illness or heat stress).

Common animal-related event activities

• Animal farms or petting zoos
• Pony or camel rides
• Wildlife displays
• Animal shows or exhibitions
• Dog-friendly community events
• Mascots or costumed animals.

Requirements and considerations

Animal welfare compliance

• All animal providers must comply with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 and relevant Codes of Practice.
• Animals must have access to food, water, shade and shelter at all times.
• Transport and handling must be humane and minimise stress.

Provider documentation

You must provide us  with:

• name and contact details of the animal handler/provider
• Public Liability Insurance (minimum $20m cover)
• a documented animal welfare and handling plan
• relevant permits or licences (for example, wildlife or domestic animal exhibitor permits).

Supervision and safety

• Animals must be always supervised by experienced handlers.
• Clear signage should be displayed outlining safety instructions (for example, hand washing, do not feed).
• Physical barriers must be used to separate animals from public areas where necessary.

Hygiene and risk control

• Provide handwashing stations with soap and water near animal areas.
• Clean and remove animal waste regularly and dispose of it safely.
• Prevent contamination of food areas by locating animal enclosures well away from stalls or catering areas.

Noise, heat and crowd considerations

• Consider the potential stress of loud music, large crowds and hot weather on animals. Provide breaks and limit exposure times.
• Avoid scheduling animals for long periods without rest.

Prohibited practices

• The use of exotic or wild animals for entertainment is not permitted.
• Events must not encourage unsafe or unnatural animal behaviours (for example, forcing animals to perform tricks).