A comprehensive review of dog ownership laws in New South Wales (NSW) could result in significant changes for pet owners, including the introduction of mandatory licenses for dogs and stricter penalties for attacks. These potential reforms come in response to a series of fatal dog attacks that have raised concerns about public safety.
The review, prompted by multiple coronial inquests, could see penalties increase for dog owners whose pets harm people, especially those who fail to comply with regulations on how their dogs should be kept. The proposed changes may also impact dog owners who keep animals for security purposes, as current legislation exempts owners from liability if their dogs attack a trespasser.
Deputy State Coroner Carmel Forbes, who delivered findings from an inquest into the death of a five-week-old baby in July 2021, revealed that NSW has seen an alarming number of fatal dog attacks since 2009. The inquest, which focused on an attack involving an American Staffordshire terrier, highlighted the breed’s high incidence of attacks, with local government data indicating it had the highest rate of incidents between 2018 and 2021.
The dog involved in the tragedy was purchased from an online marketplace, without any documentation or microchip identification, and was later euthanized. In her findings, Forbes emphasized the urgent need for stronger pet ownership regulations to minimize the risk of fatal attacks. She recommended reforms including the introduction of a licensing system for dog owners, harsher penalties for negligence, and greater accountability for pet owners.
Forbes further called for a review of laws limiting council officers’ authority to enforce restrictions on certain dogs. She also suggested that owners may need to prove their suitability to own specific breeds, with some animals requiring additional licensing.
Drawing comparisons with Queensland, where penalties for fatal or serious dog attacks can include a $100,000 fine or up to three years in prison, Forbes stressed that NSW’s current penalties were insufficient to deter non-compliance. She also advocated for improved public education on dog safety, breed selection, and proper care, training, and socialization practices.
Despite potential opposition to additional regulations, Forbes argued that any inconvenience would be outweighed by the potential to save lives and prevent injuries.
The review will follow the completion of ongoing inquests into fatal dog attacks and a parliamentary inquiry. Any legislative changes are expected to take place after these proceedings conclude.