What are the penalties for animal cruelty offences?
Penalties for animal cruelty offences vary in each jurisdiction, but all have provisions for jail terms and fines. The maximum penalties outlined in the table below can apply to both deliberate and negligent acts of animal cruelty (except for those prescribed under the NSW Crimes Act as specified below). As penalties under legislation change regularly, it is recommended that you consult the relevant legislation in your jurisdiction to ensure currency.
State/Territory |
Maximum jail term |
Maximum fine |
Legislation |
|---|---|---|---|
Australian Capital Territory |
2 years |
$22,000 for natural person $110,000 for corporation |
Animal Welfare Act 1992 |
New South Wales |
5 years* |
$22,000 for natural person $110,000 for corporation |
Crimes Act 1900, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 |
Northern Territory |
1 year |
$13,700 for natural person |
Animal Welfare Act |
Queensland |
7 years** |
$235,600 for natural person $1,178,000 for corporation |
Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 |
South Australia |
4 years |
$50,000 for natural person |
Animal Welfare Act 1985 |
Tasmania |
1.5 years |
$26,000 for natural person $130,000 for corporation |
Animal Welfare Act 1993 |
Victoria |
2 years |
$74,620 for natural person $182,000 for corporation |
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 |
Western Australia |
5 years |
$50,000 for natural person $250,000 for corporation |
Animal Welfare Act 2002 |
* Available under s.530 of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) for serious animal cruelty committed with “intention of inflicting severe harm”. 2 year maximum under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (NSW).
** Available under s.242 of the Criminal Code 1899 (Qld) for serious animal cruelty. 3 year maximum under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 (Qld).
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