NSW Set to Strengthen Animal Welfare Laws: What Pet Owners Need to Know
Animal welfare laws in New South Wales are set for a significant update, with the NSW Government announcing proposed reforms aimed at improving protections for animals and strengthening enforcement powers. These changes reflect growing community concern for animal welfare and aim to address practices that cause unnecessary harm to pets and livestock.
At Woonona Petfoods, we believe informed pet owners play a crucial role in improving animal welfare. Here’s what the proposed changes mean and how they may affect pet owners across NSW.
Why Are NSW Animal Welfare Laws Changing?
The proposed reforms are part of a comprehensive review of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979. This review has been driven by evolving community expectations, new scientific evidence and extensive consultation with animal welfare organisations, veterinarians and the public.
More than 7,000 submissions were received during consultation processes, highlighting strong public support for stronger protections for animals and clearer consequences for cruelty and neglect.
New Offences for Dogs Left in Hot Cars
One of the most significant proposed changes is the introduction of a specific offence for leaving dogs unattended in hot vehicles. Heat stress can occur rapidly, even on mild days, and can lead to serious injury or death.
RSPCA NSW data shows that over a six-year period up to 2024/25, more than 500 reports were made by the public regarding dogs locked in cars. Despite increased awareness, this issue continues to put pets at risk. The proposed legislation aims to close existing legal gaps by clearly defining this behaviour as an offence.
Proposed Ban on Prong Collars
The NSW Government has also proposed introducing an offence for the possession of prong collars. These collars tighten around a dog’s neck with metal prongs that dig into the skin and are widely criticised for causing pain, fear and physical injury.
Modern, science-based training methods favour positive reinforcement over aversive tools, and many animal welfare organisations support a ban on equipment that causes distress or harm. This proposed change reflects a broader shift toward humane training practices.
Stronger Enforcement and Emergency Powers
The reforms include enhanced enforcement powers and penalties, giving inspectors greater authority to respond effectively to animal welfare incidents. Proposed changes would allow inspectors to administer pain relief to animals in distress and enable appropriately trained Local Land Services personnel to euthanise animals in emergency situations where suffering cannot be alleviated.
These measures are designed to ensure faster, more compassionate responses when animals are at risk.
Tougher Laws Targeting Animal Fighting
Animal fighting remains one of the most severe forms of cruelty, and the proposed reforms include tougher laws and penalties targeting this activity. Strengthening these provisions aims to deter organised cruelty and give authorities clearer tools to prosecute offenders.
Support From Animal Welfare Organisations
Animal welfare organisations across NSW have welcomed the proposed reforms, noting that they address longstanding gaps in animal protection laws. Frontline inspectors are often called to distressing situations, and having clearer legal backing and appropriate tools can significantly improve outcomes for animals in need.
What This Means for Pet Owners
For responsible pet owners, these changes reinforce the importance of best-practice care. Ensuring pets are never left unattended in vehicles, choosing humane training tools, and staying informed about animal welfare laws are all part of responsible pet ownership.
At Woonona Petfoods, we support ethical, welfare-focused pet care and are always happy to offer advice on safe training equipment, enrichment alternatives and summer safety for pets.
What Happens Next?
The NSW Government has indicated it will continue discussions with key stakeholders before introducing a bill to Parliament, expected in the first half of 2026. If passed, these reforms would represent the most significant update to animal welfare laws in NSW in many years.
Supporting Animal Welfare Starts at Home
Legislation plays an important role in protecting animals, but everyday actions by pet owners make the biggest difference. By staying informed, making humane choices and advocating for animal welfare, we can all help create a safer, kinder environment for pets.
If you’d like advice on animal welfare-friendly products, summer safety, training alternatives or general pet care, visit Woonona Petfoods and speak with our friendly team.