Breeders Compliance Unit (BCU)

Unethical and illegal breeding practices can result in severe suffering for animals, which is why we’re committed to ensuring that breeders are complying with animal welfare standards.

The RSPCA NSW Breeders Compliance Unit (BCU) is responsible for investigating complaints of unethical breeding practices. In addition to responding to cruelty reports pertaining to unethical breeding, the BCU proactively inspects registered breeding establishments to ensure that they are complying with the Animal Welfare Code of Practice Breeding Dogs and Cats. 

If you suspect a breeder is engaging in illegal practices – such as breeding animals in poor conditions or failing to meet basic welfare needs – report it to RSPCA NSW. Please provide as much information as possible, including the breeder’s details, location, and any supporting evidence.

Our Inspectorate

As the largest animal welfare enforcement agency in NSW, our Inspectorate is key to our mission to protect and care for vulnerable animals. Our dedicated team responds to a wide array of cruelty complaints, from reports of deliberate cruelty to instances of unintentional neglect.

Legislation and Regulation

RSPCA NSW Inspectors are authorised to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 as well as other regulations such as breeding.

Latest News and Events

North-West Sydney Couple Convicted of Animal Cruelty Offences After Reoffending and Breaching Court Orders 

A couple from North-West Sydney has been convicted of animal cruelty offences for a second time after pleading guilty to eight offences contrary to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (NSW) (POCTAA): three counts of failing to provide veterinary treatment, two counts of committing an act of cruelty, one count of failing to comply with a disposal order, and two counts of failing to comply with a disqualification order.  Appearing in Windsor Local Court on 14 November 2025, the two defendants were convicted and sentenced to concurrent Community Correction Orders ranging from nine months to two years in duration. Three offences were dealt with by way of convictions with no other penalty. The Court imposed new disqualification orders that prohibit the defendants from owning or having anything to do with the keeping or care of animals for 10 years, though an exception was allowed for one senior dog that has been identified to RSPCA NSW. The defendants must also forfeit all animals in their care, subject to the same exception. Animal care costs were awarded to RSPCA NSW totalling $20,000 per defendant.  RSPCA NSW first prosecuted the couple in 2020 for offences relating to their operation of a self-declared animal rescue group in Freemans Reach. Those proceedings saw the defendants handed five-year disqualification orders in 2022, with an…

Find out more

RSPCA NSW Update
Statements