THE public is invited to provide feedback on the draft code of practice for the keeping of native reptiles.

The draft code has been developed by the ACT Animal Welfare Advisory Committee with input from the ACT Herpetological Association, ACT Wildlife and the University of Canberra.

“It provides residents with guidance for keeping reptiles in captivity, including mandatory minimum standards that are considered essential for meeting the requirements of the Animal Welfare Act 1992,” says TAMS Minister Shane Rattenbury. “The draft Code also complements measures to protect wild populations of reptiles from illegal harvesting, disease and genetic contamination.

“All privately kept native reptiles in the ACT, including snakes, lizards and turtles are covered by the draft code. There are six mandatory standards that private keepers of reptiles need to abide by, including caring for native reptiles’ health and wellbeing, providing adequate food and water, minimum enclosure sizes, safe handling and quarantine procedures, as well as standards for transporting and breeding reptiles.

“The draft Code provides greater enforcement powers to protect the welfare of native reptiles. On-the-spot fines can be issued to anyone breaking one of the mandatory standards by animal welfare officers, RSPCA inspectors and AFP officers.”

The draft code is at timetotalk.act.gov.au and comments can be provided via the online feedback form. Alternatively, hard copies of the draft code and feedback forms are available at all ACT public libraries and the RSPCA shelter in Weston.

Consultation closes, 5 pm on Friday, July 17.