Why national standards for assistance animals matter

At Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs, we know that the connection between a person and their Seeing Eye Dog can be life changing. It’s built on trust, confidence, and freedom. 

That’s why we are strongly supporting a move toward nationally consistent standards for assistance animals across Australia. We’re doing this so that every client past, present and future can walk through life with the best dog possible, backed by the strongest protections, recognition and access.

We want to make sure you’re never questioned, never doubted and never denied access because your dog has been trained to the highest standard.

Why this matters to you

Right now, Australia doesn’t have a single, unified approach to how assistance animals are trained, tested or recognised.  This creates confusion in the community about which animals are genuine assistance animals.   And that puts handlers and dogs, like you and your Seeing Eye Dog, at risk of being unfairly turned away from public spaces.  It also undermines the trust that you and your dog have worked so hard to earn.

What we're supporting

That’s why we’re advocating for:

• National accreditation for trainers: So only qualified, vetted people and organisations can train assistance animals.
• Minimum training standards: So your dog is prepared for every real-world situation, from busy sidewalks to public transport.
• A national public access test: So there's one clear, consistent way to show your dog is ready to accompany you anywhere you need to go.
• Evidence of disability requirements: So there's a fair, respectful and unified process to support people who really do benefit from assistance animals.
• A National Identity card (physical and digital): So you can easily prove your dog’s status anywhere in Australia.
• Animal welfare standards: Because your dog isn’t just a guide. They’re family. And they deserve the best care from the moment they’re born.

What this means for you

We have one clear purpose: to protect you, your dog, and your independence. These changes can:

• Make sure your dog is recognised and respected everywhere.
• Reduce confusion in the community about what an assistance animal is.
• Help ensure only properly trained dogs and handlers are given public access.
• Support positive experiences when travelling, accessing services, or just going about your day.

This is about making sure you never have to explain yourself, defend your dog guide, or wonder if your rights will be respected.

And it’s about making sure that when you receive your Seeing Eye Dog, you know without a doubt that they’ve been trained, tested and supported to the very highest standards, so you can focus on what matters most, living your life with independence, confidence and connection.