2 September 2025
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has delivered the strongest animal protection reforms in Territory history, with new laws passing parliament today.
The reforms amend the Animal Protection Act 2018 and Animal Protection Regulations 2022, alongside changes to the Criminal Code 1983, strengthening penalties, expanding enforcement powers, and ensuring laws reflect community expectations around animal welfare.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the changes follow extensive consultation with Territorians, including animal welfare organisations, industry groups, local councils and community members.
"Strengthening animal welfare laws ensures we are taking the right measures to safeguard the wellbeing of all animals in the NT," Mr Maley said.
"These reforms are among the strongest in the nation, and they send a clear message: cruelty and neglect will not be tolerated. We have listened to the community and responded with decisive action."
Key changes include:
Increased penalties for cruelty offences and minimum care breaches.A new minimum level of care offence.Clearer requirements for restraining dogs when travelling in vehicles and trailers.New restrictions on the use of dog prong collars and electrical devices on animals.Expanded powers for authorised officers, including the right of entry to commercial premises where business activities involving animals are being conducted including training and racing facilities, and locked vehicles to rescue animals.Powers to collect samples connected to suspected offences and to require proof of identity.New Criminal Code offences targeting the production, possession, and dissemination of animal crush and bestiality material, with the maximum penalty for bestiality increased from 7 to 10 years' imprisonment, to reflect community expectations.
Mr Maley said the reforms reflect the CLP Government's year of action, certainty and security.
"I want to thank all of the organisations and community members who provided feedback to help shape these amendments," Mr Maley said.
"The NT Government and our Animal Welfare Branch will continue to engage and work with industry and the community to boost education and awareness of animal welfare obligations, and to ensure these laws are properly understood and enforced."
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries' Animal Welfare Branch work to prevent cruelty, conduct inspections, investigate reports of offences, and ensure animals in the NT are treated humanely.
