Animals in Schools

Interpretation of the legislation relevant to the use of vertebrate animals in all NSW schools.

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Notice: All schools with birds (including poultry)

Updated 17 July 2026

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is responding to the confirmed detections of H5 bird flu in NSW. At this stage, bird flu has not been detected in commercial poultry flocks, captive birds or any other birds in NSW.

If unusual deaths or illness in wild birds or birds owned by the school are observed, please:

Avoid contact
Record by taking photos or video
Report immediately to the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) hotline on 1800 675 888.

You can obtain the latest information about Avian Influenza, including symptoms to look out for and advice on managing poultry and captive birds owned by the school on the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website.

Animals in Schools – species

These notes are for the species most suitable for keeping in schools and contain standards that must be met by schools.

Animals in Schools – compliance

All schools in NSW must satisfy the requirements of the Animal Research Act 1985 (NSW) and the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.

Animals in Schools – application forms

For activities not covered by the blanket approval under the Animal Research Authority, approval from the Schools Animal Care and Ethics Committee (SACEC) must be sought.

Animals in Schools – issues

Advice about specific issues related to the use of animals in schools.

Animals in Schools – resources

Resources designed for use by teachers in NSW schools.

About the Animals in Schools content

The advice on the Animals in Schools website is supported by the Schools Animal Care and Ethics Committee and is an outcome of the collaboration of the three NSW school sectors.

Developed by

in collaboration with

Contact

Sally Bannerman
Animal Welfare Coordinator

Tel: 0436317953
Email: sally.bannerman@det.nsw.edu.au

Animal Welfare: animalwelfare@det.nsw.edu.au

Animals in schools

Notice: All schools with birds (including poultry)