A Win for Transparency, Accountability and Compassion

In a major victory for animals and their advocates, Georgie Purcell MP (Animal Justice Party, Northern Victoria) has successfully passed a motion in the Victorian Parliament calling for urgent reform of how shelters handle behavioural euthanasia.

The motion follows the heartbreaking story of Murphy, a 12-week-old puppy killed by the Lost Dogs’ Home despite the pleas of his foster carers, Elizabeth and Sean. Murphy’s death sparked outrage across Victoria and galvanised the animal rescue community to demand justice.

What Georgie’s Motion Called For

Georgie’s motion directs the Victorian Government to investigate:

• Independent oversight of behavioural euthanasia decisions in shelters

• Mandatory offers to rehoming organisations before euthanasia occurs

• Quarterly reporting on animal outcomes for better transparency

• Public accountability around behavioural testing and decision-making processes

These changes would ensure animals like Murphy are never killed behind closed doors again.

Honouring Murphy and Every Animal Failed by the System

In her speech, Georgie dedicated the motion to Murphy and exposed years of systemic failures at the Lost Dogs’ Home. Between 2023 and 2024, the organisation reported euthanising over 1,500 dogs and 1,600 cats for behavioural reasons.

Murphy’s foster carers did everything right. They gave him love, safety and trust. Yet the system failed them. Georgie’s motion is a direct call to end this culture of secrecy and to replace it with compassion and accountability.

Thanking Victoria’s Rescue Community

This victory belongs to everyone who spoke up. To the animal rescuers, foster carers, advocates and everyday Victorians who refused to let Murphy’s story fade into silence — this progress is yours too.

Your compassion and persistence have helped bring real reform to Parliament. Together, we’re reshaping how animals are treated in shelters and giving every dog and cat the second chance they deserve.

📺 Watch Georgie’s full parliamentary speech below:

Join the Fight for Change

The fight for transparency and compassion continues. Join the Animal Justice Party today to help us build a Victoria where every life matters.

👉 Join the Animal Justice Party