Right now, NSW animal welfare legislation is weak and poorly enforced. Punishments for animal cruelty fall well short of community expectations and do nothing to deter future acts of cruelty, or to rehabilitate offenders.
NSW has some of the lowest penalties for animal cruelty offences in comparison to the other states and territories in Australia.
- In NSW, the maximum penalty for cruelty to animals by an individual is $5,500 and 6 months imprisonment. In most other states and territories, the maximum penalty exceeds $15,000 and 12 months imprisonment.
- In NSW, the maximum penalty for aggravated cruelty to animals is $22,000. In most other states and territories, the maximum penalty exceeds $30,000.
- In NSW, the maximum penalty for cruelty to animals by a corporation is $27,500. In most other states and territories, the maximum exceeds $75,000.
There are only 32 Animal Cruelty and Welfare Inspectors in the whole of NSW:
- The Chief Inspector
- The Deputy Chief Inspector
- 4 Team Leaders
- 7 North Regional Inspectors
- 7 South Regional Inspectors
- 12 Sydney Metropolitan Inspectors
Despite a discussion paper being developed by the NSW Government in May 2018, we have yet to see any new laws and protections be implemented to keep animals safe and well cared for.
Our current system is unethical and unjust, but with your help, I will hold the NSW Government to account. Together, we can ensure animals receive the protection they deserve, and secure tougher penalties for those who commit acts of cruelty against animals.
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