Stricter laws concerning driving and pets are being enforced in Australia in 2025 to guarantee animal welfare and safety on the road. Owners of pets now have to make sure that their pets are securely tied in the cars since violation of this may attract fines of up to 500 dollars or even higher in different states. These laws are meant to avoid distraction to the drivers and injuries on pets in accidents.
Driving with Pets: 10 Major Rules
– Pets must not be in the lap of the driver or free to roam in the cabin because this distracts the driver and happens to be against the law in all countries.
– Dogs should be securely chained or kept in enclosed cages in the back of the utes or open cars to avoid falls and/or escapes.
– Pets are to be secured by using approved seatbelt harnesses, pet carriers or by using secured crates.
– It is unlawful to have the animals hanging their heads in car windows.
– Drivers who are distracted by uncontrolled pets are liable to fines and may attempt to lose control of the car, which will cause accidents.
Penalties on Non-Compliance
– The fines depend on the state, but the average cost is between $277 and $500 fines on unrestrained pets in cars.
– In New South Wales and Western Australia, the penalties may be even more, the maximum is up to 5000 dollars or more in fines due to unsafe restraint or harm inflicted.
– Repeat offenders will be fined more and possibly prosecuted because of animal cruelty.
A number of states also impose the so-called demerit points when driving and distracted by pets.
Travelling with Pets: Safety Guidelines
– Wear a seatbelt or a harness, which is attached to the seatbelt anchors of the car.
– Transport pets in locked crates or carriers that are in the rear seat or the cargo section.
– Stop in between on long journeys in order to ensure your pet is comfortable and safe.
– Do not leave pets unattended in the parked cars because of the heat and safety hazards.
| State | Fine Amount | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | Up to $5,500 (for unsafe restraint) | Severe penalties for injury/neglect |
| Victoria (VIC) | Around $277 | Dogs must be tethered in utes |
| Queensland (QLD) | Up to $500 | Tethering required for pets in utes |
| Western Australia (WA) | Up to $5,000 | High penalties for unrestrained pets |
| South Australia (SA) | Around $228 | Fine for dogs on driver’s lap |
FAQs
Q1: Is driving with a dog on my lap legal in Australia?
No, it is criminal in all states with fines of up to 500 or more[1][2].
Q2: What should I do to make my pet stay in the car?
Pets must be placed in seatbelt harness, carriers or cages to avoid moving around the vehicle[3].
Q3: What will become of my dog when it gets injured, and not tied down?
You may be fined and prosecuted on cases of animal cruelty and in other states land in jail[2].
Q4: Is it possible to carry pets in the unsecured back of the ute/trailer?
No pets should be allowed to escape, they should be tethered or kept in a secure place [4] [2].
