Dr Bidda Jones AM has announced that she will be stepping down from her role as RSPCA Australia’s Chief Scientist and Strategy Officer at the end of the year.

Dr Jones has enjoyed a 25-year career with the RSPCA in Australia, including recently being appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia for her services to animal welfare science and advocacy.

Richard Mussell, CEO, RSPCA Australia, said Dr Jones has been intrinsic to the establishment and growth of the national office of the RSPCA in Australia.

“Dr Jones’s leadership and contribution to both the RSPCA and to animal welfare more broadly – both in Australia and globally – is difficult to overstate,” he said.

“Our supporters and stakeholders will be particularly aware of the impact of her work to improve the treatment of and conditions for animals in the areas of live animal exports, layer hen welfare and the use of battery cages, wild animals (including introduced species), and racehorses.

“In addition, in my time with the RSPCA, I have personally valued and appreciated the knowledge and expertise that Bidda has shared with me so patiently and generously.

“We are all very grateful to Bidda for her contribution to the RSPCA, she will be immensely missed, and we wish her the very best in her future endeavours.”

Dr Jones will remain involved in the world of animal welfare and is looking forward to developing new opportunities to continue her work to help improve the lives of Australian animals, including through providing policy and advocacy services to the broader animal welfare sector.

The recruitment process to appoint a new Chief Science Officer is now underway.