In Australia, it is permitted by law to carry dogs in the back of a ute, but there are safety and legal conditions that need to be met, to protect the welfare of the animals. Dog owners must fit the law of the particular state, which usually stipulates that dogs must be kept safe and securely fastened to the vehicle. Dogs that are unrestrained and owners that do not follow the law are putting themselves at risk of serious consequences.
Legal Requirements Across Australia
In every state and territory in Australia there is a law that prevents the unrestrained carrying of dogs in the back of a utility vehicle, and there are different requirements in different areas. The general law states that dogs must be fastened with a safety tie of a harness, or kept in a fixed safe crate that is properly ventilated. Dogs that are loose or tied in a negligent manner are not permitted, and the only exceptions are for working dogs that are in the rural areas of the property and are managing livestock.
Differences by State and Territory
Even though the rules state safe restraint aren’t different in New South Wales. Penalties can include $5,500 in fines or 6 months jail. Penalties multiply by 5 if a dog is injured. In New South Wales, if you drive with a dog in your lap, you receive a fine of a tether and crating in Victoria. In the ACT, All dogs in vehicles must be restrained and fines get close to $3,200.
How to Properly Restrain Your Dog
Using purposely and correctly made dog restraints is recommended by the rspca and all of Australian authorities. A harness should be made where the dog can either sit, lay, or stand. Jumping out and reaching the sides should be prevented and the dog should be able to lay down. Crates should be secured in the vehicle, kept in the back of the vehicle with the cabin for wind and dust, and slotted so the dog isn’t exposed to the air. Beating the heat of metal trays should be insulated. Sun can be damaging on warm days.
Non-Indemnification of Risks
In Australia, the fines for not restraining a dog in a ute are very strict and can range from a couple of hundred dollars to a bit more than 5,000 dollars, based on the infraction and the state. If a dog sustains an injury from unsafe transportation, the fines will be more severe, and in some cases, there will be imprisonment.
Basic Safety and Welfare
It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure the safety of the dog at all times. In extreme weather and on un-insulated metal surfaces, do not transport the dog on the tray of the ute. Use non-slip flooring and do not tether the dog with twine or thin rope. Make sure the dog is not overexposed to the wind, rain, and the sun; and sheltered. Wind, rain, and sun exposure, as well as tethering, will cause injury. Tethering devices must have swivels to prevent tangling.
Form Data Table
| State/Territory | Restraint Required | Max Fine |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Yes | $5,500+ |
| VIC | Yes | $500+ |
| QLD | Yes | $389+ |
| SA | Yes | $228+ |
| WA | Yes | $5,000+ |
Common Questions People Ask
1.Is it ever legal to carry an unrestrained dog in a ute?
No. In every state, an unrestrained dog must be in a vehicle, or properly enclosed in every state, with some exceptions for working livestock dogs.
2. What happens if my dog is injured while being transported unrestrained?
The owner may be issued with more severe fines, and is at risk of being prosecuted for animal cruelty. In some places, this includes the possibility of being jailed.
3. Can I use a normal leash or some rope to tie my dog?
No. You cannot use a rope or a leash on your dog. Only properly fitted car harnesses or safely positioned car crates are usable. Thin rope or collar use is also illegal, unsafe, and could lead to injury or death.
In Australia, if all the appropriate control measures are in place, it’s allowed to carry a dog in a ute. Assuming safety measures will be in place, irresponsible dog owners will also have a false sense of safety. Having a legal method of restraint on a dog will avoid fines and ensure the owner’s safety and peace of mind.
