A 66-year-old man, a repeat animal cruelty offender from Ballarat, pleaded guilty to 10 offences under the Domestic Animals Act (1994) in the Ballarat Magistrates Court on 25 February 2026 following another successful investigation and prosecution by RSPCA Victoria Inspectors.

The man has been previously investigated and successfully prosecuted by RSPCA Victoria for offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1986) and the Domestic Animals Act (1994) on multiple occasions.

The man was fined $9,000 with conviction and banned under s84WA of the Domestic Animals Act (1994), to be served concurrently with an existing court-ordered ban.

“These are serious matters, and this is reflected in the maximum penalty that the parliament has provided,” Her Honour Magistrate Hartnett said.

RSPCA Victoria Chief Inspector Michelle Green said the organisation will always investigate and prosecute anyone involved with the illegal rearing or selling of animals in Victoria.

“RSPCA Victoria Inspectors are determined to end these illegal businesses compromising the welfare of innocent animals for profit, and we hope today’s decision will be seen as a warning that it is simply not worth it,” Chief Inspector Green said.

“We are grateful to the Victorians who are our eyes and ears and report animal cruelty to our Inspectors.

“We urge everyone to be vigilant when buying a pet to ensure they’re not contributing to this type of animal cruelty and irresponsible breeding practices, and we urge anyone with first-hand information or evidence of potential offending to make a report.”

The relevant offences are covered under the Domestic Animals Act (1994) and anyone found guilty of similar offences can face fines of up to $50,063.46.

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.