In Queensland, people who fail to provide adequate care for their livestock and pets could face up to three years in jail and a fine of up to $287,500 under new laws.
The offences were among a range of changes introduced to the state’s animal welfare laws on Friday.
The new laws also ban the use of dog restraints in cars and require owners to keep their pets restrained.
They also prohibit the use of yellow phosphorous pig poison and gaggers on horses.
Authorities will be given more powers to allow them to provide aid to animals in distress.
People found guilty of animal cruelty in other states will also be prohibited from keeping their pets in Queensland.
The new laws were introduced after a review of the state’s animal welfare laws was conducted.
“We have listened to Queenslanders who want to see better protection for animals and people who don’t comply,” Mark Furner, the state’s Agriculture Minister, said.