The Andrews Labor Government continues to improve the wellbeing of Victorian pets by supporting the rehoming of Staffordshire Bull Terriers through a new community foster care facility in Carlsruhe.

Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes today opened the new facility in Carlsruhe, built with the support of a $50,000 Animal Welfare Grant.

The facility will be run by Stafford Rescue Victoria, who promote the welfare of the Terriers and crossbreeds.

It will provide temporary housing for up to five dogs waiting for their forever homes, with the aim of doubling the number of dogs re-homed annually.

The facility includes sheltered kennels, fenced play yards, a behavioural temperament testing area and a secure adoption zone to allow the dogs to be introduced to potential owners in a safe way.

Stafford Rescue Victoria started as a point of contact for people who had lost or found a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Over time, the organisation has grown and has now re-homed more than 2,000 dogs.

The Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program started in 2012 and recognises the outstanding services delivered by not-for-profit organisations, and the important role animals play in the lives of Victorians.

The fund is an important part of the Labor Government’s work to make sure animal welfare organisations have the resources they need to care for animals – no matter where they are based.

The Labor Government has committed a further $3 million to support not-for-profit and community vet clinics, animal shelters and foster carers.

For more information about animal welfare grants, visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au.