The state is poised to undergo its most significant overhaul of animal welfare legislation in years.

The government has unveiled a series of proposed amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, aiming to enhance protections for animals.

Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty highlighted the extensive public engagement in this process, stating, “We have received over 7,000 submissions in the past couple of years regarding how we can bolster animal welfare laws.”

“The community is calling for the government to take stronger action,” she added.

Among the proposed reforms, it would become a criminal offense to leave a dog in a hot vehicle. Additionally, the use and possession of prong collars—controversial tools deemed harmful and outdated for dog training—would be prohibited.

Animal cruelty powers and penalties would also be beefed up.

But there are still questions as to how the laws will look in practicality.

“I’ll be engaging with authorities about defining what the rules are for leaving the animals unattended,” Moriarty said.

Stephen Albin, from Animal Welfare League NSW, said: “They’re constant companions, and one of the issues is you’ve got to ensure you look after them.”

The government will present the bill to parliament in the first half of this year.