SPCA welcomes passing of animal cruelty bill

The SPCA has applauded the Government for passing the Animal Welfare Amendment Act, which will see increased penalties for the neglect and ill-treatment of animals.

SPCA branches were delighted about the new law, chief executive Robyn Kippenberger said.

The maximum sentence for wilful ill-treatment of an animal has been increased from three to five years and the maximum fine doubled to $100,000 for an individual and $500,000 for a company.

Penalties also increase for a range of other neglect and ill-treatment offences and the Act expands the law relating to forfeiture of animals and disqualification from having them. MORE>>