Leaving a dog unattended in a hot car could soon be a criminal offence under proposed changes to NSW animal welfare laws.

The NSW Government has unveiled a package of reforms following a review of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, aimed at strengthening protections for animals.

The proposal comes amid strong community concern, with RSPCA NSW data showing more than 500 reports of dogs locked in cars over the six years to 2024–25.

The reforms would introduce specific offences for leaving dogs in hot vehicles and for using or possessing prong collars, a training tool described as painful and discredited.

Tougher animal fighting laws are also proposed, with changes designed to close loopholes and support police investigations, including links to organised crime.

Enforcement powers and penalties for animal cruelty would be strengthened to send clearer deterrent messages to offenders.

Under the proposals, animal welfare inspectors would be allowed to administer pain relief to animals in critical situations.

Appropriately trained Local Land Services staff could also be authorised to euthanise animals in emergency circumstances.

The review was informed by animal welfare data, scientific evidence and more than 7,000 submissions from the public, industry groups and parliamentary inquiries.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said the reforms reflected community expectations.

“Leaving dogs in locked cars on hot days is not acceptable,” she said.

Animal Welfare League NSW chief executive Stephen Albin said the proposed laws addressed serious gaps in animal welfare protections.

“Laws for leaving a dog in a hot car and using prong collars are critical, given the harm they cause,” he said.

DOGS NSW Committee member Lyn Brown said the organisation supported changes that set clearer expectations around acceptable practices.

The NSW Government expects to introduce a bill to Parliament in coming months.