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  4. RSPCA Australia welcomes new Chief…

RSPCA Australia has welcomed Dr Suzanne Fowler, who has commenced with the organisation in the crucial role of Chief Science Officer.

Dr Fowler will lead the organisation’s Science and Policy team, and will play a key role in ensuring the RSPCA continues to improve the lives of animals by using animal welfare science to inform policies, positions and campaigns. 

Dr Fowler is a veterinarian and strategic leader in animal welfare, who has most recently worked as Senior University Veterinarian at the Australian National University, and as the ANU’s Head of Animal Services for nine years.

RSPCA Australia CEO Richard Mussell welcomed Dr Fowler to the team and to this key strategic role.

“The RSPCA is a science-based organisation and we rely on animal welfare science to inform everything we do – from the advice we provide to the community on our Knowledgebase, to our advocacy for laws that better protect animals, to the rigorous standards we develop for the RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme,” said Mr Mussell.

“We were very impressed with Suzie’s experience in animal welfare, her passion and drive for improving the lives of animals, and her ability to work with stakeholders to achieve better animal welfare outcomes.

“Suzie will be at the forefront of some of our most important work – including our continuing push to see a phase out of barren battery cages for layer hens and our campaign to end live animal export.”

Dr Fowler said that she was delighted to be joining the team and to lead the science and policy work of Australia’s most trusted animal welfare charity.

 “Animals enrich our lives in many ways. From our pets to farm animals to our amazing native wildlife, we owe it to them to ensure they live the best possible life,” said Dr Fowler.

“I am looking forward to working with the trusted team at RSPCA Australia to advocate for continual improvement in the welfare of all animals.”

Dr Fowler moves into the role following the departure of Dr Bidda Jones AM, who stepped down from leading RSPCA Australia’s science and policy work in December 2021, after a stellar 25-year career with the RSPCA.

 
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