For 30 years, Australians and their dogs have walked side by side to support animal welfare. But in 2025, the RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk will take its one last lap, marking the end of a beloved tradition.
RSPCA’s Final Million Paws Walk to Mark the End of an Era for Animal Lovers
RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk has united Australians in a shared mission to fight animal cruelty for the last three decades. But in 2025, the event will take its final lap. Because of increasing expenses and changing fundraising issues, the RSPCA announced that this popular event will take place for the final time on Sunday, 25 May, at Noosa. The move brings to a close a long-standing tradition that has raised $17 million and watched over 750,000 people walk with their four-legged friends for a purpose that counts.
Why the Million Paws Walk Is Ending
The cost-of-living emergency and rising event costs have resulted in the RSPCA finding it challenging to continue the Million Paws Walk. Although the event has been a significant fundraiser, the organisation has determined to allocate its resources to directly support the growing number of animals in need. With more Australians struggling financially, giving patterns have altered, resulting in a change in the way charities such as the RSPCA function.
An RSPCA spokesperson said that although the event has been a mainstay of their fundraising campaigns, the focus must now be on ensuring every dollar raised goes straight into providing critical veterinary care, shelter, and welfare programs. By avoiding large-scale events, the organisation wants to concentrate on more sustainable and direct assistance programs for animals in Australia.
A Legacy of Community and Compassion
From the very start, the Million Paws Walk has been a movement, not just a fundraiser. Families, pet owners, and animal lovers have come year after year to walk their dogs, raise awareness, and help fund the RSPCA’s cause. More than 400,000 dogs—or 1.6 million paws—have walked alongside their owners to support animal welfare initiatives over the years.
The event has been key in funding shelter operations, medical care, and rehabilitation programs for rescued and abandoned animals. By bringing people together in a fun and interactive way, it has strengthened public awareness about animal cruelty and responsible pet ownership.
Final Event: One Last Lap in May
The final-ever Million Paws Walk will be held in different cities of Australia, and Noosa will host the final big walk. The RSPCA is inviting everyone to walk one final time and create a special sendoff to an event that has left an unshakable impact on Australian animal welfare movements.
The supporters can look forward to a happy and festive atmosphere, with special emphasis on the celebration of the event’s heritage. There are special “One Last Lap” merchandise that supports fans in being able to carry a bit of the Million Paws Walk legacy home.
Though this might be the last walk, the RSPCA encourages supporters to keep coming up with new ideas to assist animals in need. Donating, volunteering, or adopting from shelters are some ways to do so. The organization is dedicated to its cause, ensuring every animal gets the care and protection it needs.
How to Join the Final Walk
Those who are interested to join the final Million Paws Walk can register online at millionpawswalk.com.au. The activity is for all animal lovers, with or without a dog. Tickets are already available and pre-registration is suggested in order to save a place for this milestone event.
The RSPCA would like to thank all past and current participants for their commitment over the years and invites everyone to put on their walking shoes one final time to mark three decades of compassion, community, and commitment to animal welfare.
Published 26-February-2025