This week Stock Journal highlighted some of the proposed changes to SA's animal welfare laws, which include enforcing harsher punishments for those who inflict cruelty on animals.
The penalties for individuals found guilty of aggravated animal cruelty rise from a maximum of $50,000 and four years jail to $250,000 and 10 years jail. Corporations could face fines up to $1 million.
Environment Minister Susan Close says the animal welfare reform will ensure the laws governing the treatment of animals match community expectations.
"Most people show great care towards animals, but those who deliberately mistreat them deserve to face serious consequences," she said.
"Tougher penalties, along with other reforms to the Animal Welfare Act, will play an important role in reducing incidents of animal cruelty."
Livestock SA president Joe Keynes says they will also look at the document closely to ensure there are "no negative outcomes" for good livestock producers, but at first glance could not see any major issues.
"As an industry we have been very focused on setting high animal welfare standards and we know most producers look after their animals well," he said.
"The increase in penalties will only be a concern for those doing the wrong thing."
Stock Journal invites you to take part in our poll (pictured above), but if you have further thoughts on the proposed changes, head to the yoursay.sa.gov.au/animal-welfare-draft-bill page.
Submissions close on May 19, with the final Bill to be tabled in parliament later this year.
