Straying Livestock

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Straying stock on public roads is a serious safety risk for drivers, livestock, and the wider community. These incidents can lead to dangerous collisions, property damage, and significant legal and financial consequences for owners.

Simple steps like maintaining fencing, checking gates, and monitoring livestock can make a big difference.

If You See Straying Stock on a Public Road

If you come across livestock on a public road, contact Warrumbungle Shire Council on (02) 6849 2000.

If you are unable to contact these services, you can contact NSW Police. Police are responsible for protecting people from injury and property from damage, but they are not equipped or trained to move livestock.

If possible, you should also try to identify and notify the owner so they can recover their animals promptly.

Responsibilities of Livestock Owners

If you own livestock, it is your responsibility to ensure your animals do not stray onto public roads or neighbouring land.

If your livestock stray and contribute to a motor vehicle accident, you may be charged with a criminal offence. Owners may also face civil liability, fines, and other penalties if their animals cause damage or injury.

Straying stock can also create biosecurity risks, potentially leading to serious health issues for other animals and environmental impacts.

To help prevent stock from straying, property owners should:

  • Conduct regular inspections of fencing
  • Ensure fences are stock proof
  • Check gates and boundary conditions

Taking preventative steps can help avoid incidents and protect both the community and your livestock.

Understanding the Rules

Under the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021, authorities have the power to act when animals are unattended or trespassing.

This includes situations where animals are:

  • On public roads or in public places
  • On private land without permission

Authorised officers may:

  • Return the animal to the owner
  • Take possession of the animal immediately
  • Move animals to a safe location in emergency situations

Authorities must prioritise the safety of the community and the welfare of the animal.

Fines and Penalties

Fines apply if animals are left unattended or allowed to stray:

  • $660 fine for the first animal
  • Additional fines may apply for multiple animals
  • Higher penalties may be imposed by a court

If an animal is taken into possession and not reclaimed within 7 days, it may be sold or rehomed.

If Stock Enters Private Property

If livestock stray onto private land, the landowner may take possession of the animal and must:

  • Notify the owner within 24 hours
  • Return the animal within 4 days, or
  • Contact an authority within 4 days to arrange care

Factsheets and Further Information

Straying Stock Fact Sheet

Infographics - new rules for animals

Factsheet - new rules for animals

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