20,000 people sign petition to allow pets on public transport

A petition calling for transport operators to allow pets on public transport has garnered over 20,000 signatures. 

Launched by pet supplier retailer Pet Circle in conjunction with Seven Communications, the Pawtition is calling for transport operators and ministers to recognise and act on the soaring demand for pets on public transport.

Currently in NSW, pets can travel on buses, ferries, light rail, and in a taxi if confined in a container and permission is given by the driver.  

The petition is demanding uniform regulations across all Australian states and includes pet travel on domestic flights. 

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The group say implementing this change will help those that don’t have a car or can’t drive (like those with impairments or the elderly) get to key services like the vet; allow families to save on parking, ride-share and car-share services; support return-to-office initiatives; reduce social anxiety for pets and owners; and lessen the reliance on cars for transporting pets, which, in turn, will reduce carbon emissions.

Ella Lymbereas, VP of brand and creative at Pet Circle, said: “Championing pets on public transport is one way we hope to drive real change for pets and their parents”. 

“Our customers have told us that being able to take their pets with them wherever they go – be it back to the office, joining them on their trips to see family and friends, or simply making it easier to get them to vet appointments – was key to making their lives better.” 

“Together with rising cost of living pressures and concerns around road congestion, being able to take pets on public transport is an obvious solution to making our cities more livable, for all,” she added. 

The campaign includes a social advocacy initiative across Instagram and TikTok, with pet influencers urging their followers to support the cause. 

Pet Circle staff, members, and supporters also met outside NSW Parliament House yesterday. 

Patrice Pandeleos, managing director at Seven Communications, said as a dog owner, she is passionate about the campaign. 

“It’s been hugely motivating working with the incredible team at Pet Circle in order to make an impact and improve the lives of pet owners and pets across the country. The campaign is an important one to so many Australians, and we hope that, ultimately, we’ve played a part in realising change in policy.” 

This PR campaign is part of the second phase of Pet Circle’s Pet-lightement campaign which also includes OOH, BVOD, radio and TikTok creator content.