Australia has some of the strictest laws in the world on dogs being carried in the back of utes for the safety of the drivers and the dogs. Each dog owner should know the laws surround the transporting of dogs and the penalties, which can be in the thousands, if a dog owner wishes to allow a dog to ride in the open tray of a ute or trailer. Every state and territory in Australia has laws regarding dogs being transported in open utes or other open vehicles and the laws require that dogs be properly restrained. Each dog must be either restrained in a car and harness dog in a car and harness dog or put in a secured, ventilated crate. These laws are in place to keep the dogs from escaping, jumping, or falling off and to keep the dog from becoming a distraction to the driver no matter the distance of the trip.
State-by-State Penalties and Fines
In 2025, New South Wales will be able to hand out fines and 6 months in prison for cruelty offences as high as $5,500, while Victoria’s is only $1,975. Queensland’s top penalty under the Animal Care and Protection Act is $9,660 and the Northern Territory is $9,450. Lower penalties for offences like driving with a dog unsecured in the cabin and on the driver’s lap also have fines. Penalties for unsecured dogs while driving range from $110 to $660 in Tasmania, New South Wales, and Queensland.
Restraint, Comfort, and Weather Protection
Legal precautions and safety recommendations aimed at dogs provide more than rapid tethering. Safe driving provisions require dogs to be tethered so that they have the freedom to sit, stand, and lie down during travel. Universal dog safety provisions require sun shields and non-skid mats to cover hot surfaces and active heated surfaces must be insulated when air temps exceed 28°c. It is legally required to provide a dog with free flowing water during travel. Dogs provide a sense of security to drivers thus, drivers must always be considerate of the dog’s welfare.
Working Dogs and Specific Exemptions
The laws allow some exemptions for guide dogs and herding or livestock working dogs while they are performing those duties. Working dogs are required to comply with restraint and safety laws as are all dogs when in public access roads.
Consequences and Enforcement
Not safely restraining a dog can lead to fines and the added consequences of animal cruelty or reckless driving. Roads are patrolled by police and animal welfare officers to check for the unsafe transport of dogs and other animals. Removing it from the owner and issuing a fine are some of the consequences of unsafe transport. Colluding, losing license points, and in serious cases, going to court are some of the consequences of repeat offenders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is it legal for a dog to ride in an open ute tray?
Yes, as long as the dog is properly restrained and/or confined in a crate.
Q2: What is the fine for not restraining a dog in a ute?
Fines for dogs in utes range from $1,460 to $9,660, depending on the state and the amount of harm or risk posed.
Q3: Are there exemptions for not restraining a dog?
Only working dogs and guide dogs when performing their duties are provided with exemptions, but basic safety must still be provided.
