Since the introduction of the Exhibited Animals Protection Act in 1986 there has been a marked improvement in the standard of animal displays in zoos, fauna parks and mobile exhibits within New South Wales. These changes have been assisted by the development of general standards and standards for specific groups of animals including primates, carnivores, Australian mammals, dolphins and circus animals, and by the routine inspection of facilities. Significant challenges that have been faced include the holding of koalas by visitors, the use of animals in circuses and the euthanasia of healthy exhibit animals. Other significant events that have led to policy changes include the forced closure of several fauna parks due to the poor standard of animal care and the occurrence of a solitary circus elephant. Apart from the direct effects of the legislation, the changes to the zoo industry have been driven from within the industry itself and through public awareness and associated complaints. Court proceedings have also helped test the legislation and standards and identify shortcomings. In the future more research needs to be undertaken to identify specific requirements of different animal groups and zoo regulators will need to continue consulting with the industry