Is It Legal to Carry Your Dog in a Ute Tray? Here's What Every Aussie Driver Needs to Know

2025-05-21

There’s nothing better than loading up the ute and heading out with your furry best mate—whether it’s for a quick trip to the café, a beach adventure, or a countryside cruise. But before you let your dog hop into the back of your ute, it’s essential to understand the legal and safety responsibilities involved in travelling with pets in Australia.

Can You Carry Your Dog in the Back of a Ute?

Yes, you can legally carry your dog in the back of a ute—but only if they are properly restrained or enclosed. This rule applies across all Australian states and territories. What once was common practice on rural farms has now become a serious matter of road safety and animal welfare, particularly as utes become more common in suburban and city areas.

According to RSPCA Australia, your dog must either be:

Secured with a car-suitable harness (not just a collar), or
Enclosed in a secured, ventilated crate or cage.

RSPCA’s Recommendations for Safe Ute Travel

To protect your pet—and avoid fines—the RSPCA recommends:

Using a fitted harness that allows the dog to sit, lie down, and stand, but prevents them from reaching the ute’s sides or jumping out.
If using a crate, it must be securely fixed behind the cabin, shielded from wind and dust, and large enough for your dog to move comfortably.
Avoid placing dogs on metal trays during hot days. For example, in Victoria, dogs must not be carried on exposed metal surfaces when temperatures reach 28°C or above, unless insulation is provided.

Exceptions for Working and Guide Dogs

Certain states—including NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia—offer exemptions for guide dogs and livestock working dogs, acknowledging their specific roles in agriculture and service.

What Are the Penalties for Driving with an Unrestrained Dog?

The rules may be similar across Australia, but fines vary widely by state and territory. Here’s a breakdown of potential penalties in 2025:

🟡 Victoria

Maximum fine: 10 penalty units = $1975

🔵 New South Wales

Maximum fine: 50 penalty units = $5500
Possible jail time: Up to 6 months
Corporate penalty: Up to $27,500

🔴 Queensland

Maximum fine under the Animal Care and Protection Act: $9660

🟢 South Australia

Penalty for unrestrained dogs: $1460

🟠 Western Australia

Animal transport non-compliance: $500–$750

🟣 Tasmania

Maximum penalty for failure to restrain: $1810

🟤 Northern Territory

Maximum fine: $9250

Safety First: Protect Your Pup and Avoid the Fines

While it might be tempting to let your dog ride freely in the back of the ute, the risks far outweigh the convenience. From sudden braking to high-speed turns, unsecured pets face serious dangers on the road—and so do you if found in breach of the law.

At the end of the day, ensuring your dog’s safety in your ute is not just a legal obligation—it’s a loving responsibility. Whether you’re a tradie, farmer, or suburban dog lover, always take the time to secure your pet properly before hitting the road.

Want more tips on safe pet travel, vehicle accessories for dog owners, or ute setup advice? Drop into your local dealership or chat with the team at Tynan Motors—we’re here to help you and your four-legged friend travel smart and safe.

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: Drive.com.au