Dog Travel Laws in Australia
Travelling with dogs is second nature for most Aussies. But many owners don’t realise that every state and territory has its own laws for how dogs must be restrained in vehicles – and the fines are serious. From hundreds of dollars through to $5,500 and even prison in extreme cases, being unaware of the rules isn’t an excuse. Below is a clear breakdown of what the law says in each state and territory.
NSW
New South Wales
- Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, dogs travelling in the back of a ute or open vehicle must be restrained or enclosed. Maximum penalty: $5,500 fine and six months jail. If a dog is injured because it was unrestrained, the fine can reach $27,500.
- It is illegal to drive with a dog on your lap. Police can issue fines of up to $2,200.
VIC
Victoria
- Dogs must be secured on the back of a ute with a tether or cage under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. Maximum penalty: $500 fine.
- Driving with a dog on your lap carries an on‑the‑spot fine of $277.
- Dogs cannot be transported in the enclosed boot of a car.
QLD
Queensland
- Since December 2022, it is illegal to carry an unrestrained dog on a ute or trailer under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001. Maximum penalty: $8,625 fine.
- Working dogs are exempt only when actively herding livestock.
- A dog may sit in the front passenger seat but never on the driver’s lap.
SA
South Australia
- Under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995, it is illegal to carry an unrestrained dog on a moving vehicle. Typical expiation fee: $210. Maximum court fine: $1,250.
- Driving with a dog on your lap is prohibited.
TAS
Tasmania
- Dogs must be “restricted sufficiently” in or on a vehicle so they cannot escape under the Dog Control Act 2000. Maximum penalty: $905 fine.
- Dogs may travel in the front passenger seat but not on the driver’s lap.
ACT
Australian Capital Territory
- Under the Animal Welfare Act 1992, dogs travelling in the back of a ute must be restrained. Maximum penalty: $3,200 fine.
- Dogs can ride in the cabin if they do not obstruct the driver.
WA
Western Australia
- No specific road rule, but under the Animal Welfare Act 2022 transporting a dog in a way that risks injury can be considered cruelty. Maximum penalty: $50,000 fine and five years imprisonment.
- Dogs may sit in the front passenger seat, but cannot be on the driver’s lap.
NT
Northern Territory
- The NT has no explicit restraint law, but the Animal Protection Act 2018 requires animals to be transported in a way that does not cause unnecessary suffering. Minimum penalty for breach: $100 fine. Serious cruelty offences can carry up to two years imprisonment.
- Dogs are allowed in the front passenger seat provided they don’t obstruct the driver.
Disclaimer: The information provided above is a general summary of current legislation in each state and territory. It is not legal advice. Laws and penalties may change, and enforcement can vary. For the most up‑to‑date information, please refer to the relevant government authority in your state or territory.
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