A Ballarat woman was convicted of three counts of animal cruelty at the Ballarat Magistrates Court on Monday 15 June 2026 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1986).
She was sentenced to 45 days’ imprisonment, fined $3,452.44, banned from being the person in charge of any animal until 2042, and RSPCA Victoria Inspectors have been authorised to monitor compliance with the ban.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectors attended a property in Ballarat after receiving an animal cruelty report from a member of the public and found two severely emaciated animals, a cat and a dog, with no food, water, or human available to provide care.
Both animals were immediately seized and brought to RSPCA Victoria’s Burwood East shelter for assessment and care.
RSPCA Victoria’s treating veterinarian said the animals’ poor condition was likely due to starvation over several weeks.
Magistrate Wardell described the offences as appalling.
“This is as serious as it gets, the animals were on the brink of death,” His Honour said.
“I don’t know how you closed your eyes at night.
“The callous treatment of animals that rely on her for sustenance is absolutely appalling.
“I need to consider general and specific deterrence, denunciation and community expectations.”
RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green thanked the community for their support.
“We thank the community for their vigilance and support in helping animals live better lives and encourage anyone to report animal cruelty when they see it.”
This matter is now listed for Appeal in January 2027
The woman had previously been successfully prosecuted by RSPCA Victoria in 2022 on charges relating to the death of a dog in her care and was banned from being the person in charge of any animal until 2032.
Anyone found guilty of animal cruelty offences can face fines of up to $50,877.50 or 12 months’ imprisonment.
Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/who-to-call or by calling 03 9224 2222.
It’s estimated it will cost RSPCA Victoria more than $12.8 million to operate the Inspectorate this financial year.
