New era for animal welfare as Ballarat Regional Animal Facility works commence

A major step forward in animal welfare across Ballarat and Western Victoria has been reached, with construction now underway on the new Ballarat Regional Animal Facility at Mitchell Park. 

City of Ballarat Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves was joined on site yesterday by Minister for Agriculture Michaela Settle and Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison to mark the commencement of works on the purpose-built facility. 

The Ballarat Regional Animal Facility will replace the City of Ballarat's existing animal shelter, which currently operates from an ageing repurposed abattoir building that is no longer fit for purpose and regularly reaches capacity. 

Once complete, the new facility will provide modern, best-practice animal care services for thousands of animals from Ballarat and neighbouring municipalities each year. 

The $14.5 million project is jointly funded by the Victorian Government, which has contributed $11.5 million, and the City of Ballarat, which has committed $3 million. 

“Every animal deserves to be treated with care and compassion, and this new facility will deliver a safer, more modern environment for pets across Ballarat and western Victoria,” said Minister for Agriculture Michaela Settle.

“We’re investing in the infrastructure regional communities need to support better animal welfare outcomes and ensure councils have the facilities to care for animals in need.”

City of Ballarat Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the project represents a complete transformation in the delivery of animal care services. 

"Our staff and volunteers do an incredible job in facilities that have long since outgrown their intended use," Cr Hargreaves said. 

"This purpose-built facility will give our team the space, equipment and modern infrastructure they need to work more efficiently and deliver the best possible outcomes for animals." 

Designed by Architecture Matters, the facility will include separate areas for dogs and cats, integrated indoor and outdoor animal spaces, dedicated adoption areas, veterinary treatment rooms, improved infection control measures and enhanced boarding capacity. 

"Every aspect of the facility has been designed to support animal welfare while improving how our staff and volunteers care for animals each day, making every stage of the animal care journey more effective," Cr Hargreaves said. 

"Most importantly, it will provide a safer and more comfortable environment for animals, staff, volunteers and visitors, helping our team continue the exceptional work they do and creating a better experience for the community." 

The new facility is being delivered by local contractor H. Troon Pty Ltd and completion is anticipated for late 2027.

Ballarat Regional Animal Facility project page