Noel Hunt, CEO of Ten Lives, expressed optimism and encouragement regarding the announcement made by the Tamanian Liberals that landlords would not be able to unreasonably reject a tenant’s application on the basis of pet ownership.
The announcement addresses a pressing issue faced by many families across Tasmania, the challenge of finding accommodation that allows pets. Mr Hunt highlighted the distressing reality faced by numerous families who are forced to give up their beloved pets due to rental accommodation restrictions.
“Every week we’re having at least a couple of families coming into us who have to give up their pets because they cannot find suitable accommodation that will take their pets,” Mr Hunt said. He emphasised that the problem often leads to the abandonment of pets when tenants are compelled to move on.
Acknowledging the collaborative efforts between animal welfare organisations, the government, and the Tenants’ Union of Tasmania, he expressed gratitude for the positive change being initiated for Tasmanians. He revealed that discussions with the government, facilitated by Madeleine Ogilvie, had been ongoing, resulting in a promising shift in policy.
Ben Bartl, principal solicitor for the Tenants’ Union of Tasmania, echoed Mr Hunt’s sentiments, expressing strong support for the government’s acknowledgment of tenants’ rights to have pets. Mr Bartl highlighted the positive impact this decision would have on the mental well-being of tenants and the broader community, particularly considering Tasmania’s high rate of pet ownership.
“We’re very supportive of the government coming out to finally acknowledge that tenants do have the right to have pets,” Mr Bartl affirmed.
The announcement holds significant implications for both animal welfare and tenant rights in Tasmania. By allowing more rental households to have pets, it not only alleviates the emotional burden faced by families but also reduces the strain on the state’s cat management facilities, Ten Lives and Just Cats.
“It’s great news for the 58,000 rental households across Tasmania that moving forward they will be able to have a pet,” Mr Bartl said.
Mr Hunt reiterated the importance of bipartisan support for the initiative, expressing hope that all parties and candidates would rally behind the cause to ensure its successful implementation.
“This is a very important initiative, and Ten Lives are really hoping that all parties and all candidates are right behind this so that it does happen,” he said.
Both Mr Hunt and Mr Bartl said the positive outcomes of the collaborative efforts between stakeholders and the government, expressing confidence in the steps being taken to address this pressing issue.
“Our discussions with the government have been very positive, and our arguments have been heard, so we’re extremely positive about what’s happening in this case,” Mr Hunt stated.
As Tasmania moves towards a more inclusive rental policy regarding pet ownership, the welfare of both tenants and their animal companions stands to benefit significantly. With continued cooperation and advocacy, this initiative promises to bring about positive change for the entire community.