Is Fur Illegal in Australia?
Understanding Australia's fur laws and why real fur is still being sold.
Quick Answer: No.
Fur farming is illegal in Australia, but the sale and importation of fur products remain legal. This means Australia continues to import fur from countries where animals such as mink, foxes, raccoon dogs and rabbits are farmed and killed for their fur. FOUR PAWS Australia is calling for stronger laws to help end the fur trade and protect animals from unnecessary suffering.
Key Takeaways
- Fur farming is banned in Australia.
- Real fur is legally imported and sold.
- Millions of animals suffer in fur farms around the world each year.
- Most fur comes from intensive farming systems.
- FOUR PAWS Australia supports an end to fur sales in Australia.
Is Fur Farming Legal in Australia?
No. Fur farming is already illegal in Australia because it fails to meet even basic animal welfare standards. Despite this, Australia still imports and sells fur from other countries where animals are raised in cage systems and killed for fashion.
This creates a contradiction. While Australia has rejected fur farming domestically, Australians can still purchase fur products sourced from overseas.
Why Is Fur Still Sold in Australia?
Australia imports fur products from international markets, particularly from regions where commercial fur farming continues such as Europe and China.
Real fur can be found on:
- Jackets and coats
- Hat trims
- Scarves
- Handbags
- Footwear
- Accessories
- Children’s toys
Many consumers do not realise they are purchasing real fur, especially when products are mis-labelled, unlabelled or falsely marketed as faux fur.
Why Is FOUR PAWS Calling for Change?
Animals farmed for fur spend their lives in small wire cages with little opportunity to express natural behaviours. Common species include mink, foxes, raccoon dogs and rabbits.
FOUR PAWS believes Australians should not be contributing to animal suffering overseas through imported fur products. The organisation is calling for stronger measures to reduce consumer deception and support a Fur Free Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
All you need to know about fur
Is fur farming banned in Australia?
Yes. Fur farming is illegal in Australia.
Can I still buy real fur in Australia?
Yes. Fur products can still be legally imported and sold.
What animals are commonly used for fur?
Animals commonly farmed for fur include mink, foxes, raccoon dogs, rabbits and chinchillas.
Is real fur required to make clothing warm?
No. Modern alternatives can provide warmth without using animal fur.
How can you help to end fur farming?
- Choose animal-friendly fashion alternatives – this means fur free! Check out the Fur Free Retailer list for brands who have committed to use no fur.
- Check labels carefully before purchasing clothing.
- Support greater transparency in fashion supply chains.
- Join the Fur Free Australia campaign.
