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What some other organisations think

Animal Liberation is not the only organisation opposed to the use of animals in circuses. RSPCA Australia has a similar view. Section 3 of their Policy Statement says:

" RSPCA Australia is totally opposed to exhibitions or presentations of animals in circuses, travelling menageries and theatres.

Circus animals are kept most of the time in close confinement, in abnormal social groups and are continually being transported-all causes of stress.

They are subjected to forced training, performing to a time-table and performing acts which do not come naturally to them ."

In 1994 the Conservation Council of South Australia issued a press release calling for a ban on circus animals. It said:

" The Conservation Council of South Australia regrets that once again the circus has come to town, bringing with it wildlife from other parts of the world, to be displayed and forced to perform unnatural acts.

Reflecting the concerns of South Australia conservationists for global as well as local issues, the Council argues that circuses-which by their very nature exploit wildlife in the most undignified manner for the mere pleasure of a few humans-should be banned from appearing in south Australia.

Circuses are banned in many other parts of the world. Keeping protected wildlife in small cages or in chains is no longer acceptable to thinking members of our community. They are an anachronism in today's society", said spokesperson for the Conservation Council, Bob Marshall." (Media Release, 1 October 1994)

Recognising that circuses are an inadequate home for animals, 36 councils around Australia have passed laws banning circuses with animals from council controlled land. Councils who passed such motions in South Australia were Hindmarsh-Woodville, Noarlunga, Marion, Tea Tree Gully, Elizabeth and Thebarton.

In 1992 it became illegal in the Australian Capital Territory to confine exotic animals in circuses. Primates may be only be brought into the Territory with the Minister's approval.

Back to main Circuses document.