How Common Are Dog Bites in Australia?
Dog attacks are more common in Australia than most people think. According to government statistics, over 13,000 people seek medical attention for dog bites each year, with approximately 2,500 cases requiring hospitalisation. Severe attacks can lead to permanent disabilities, infections, and even death.
One of the biggest questions victims face is: who pays for the medical bills, lost wages, and trauma after a dog bite? Many Australians assume their insurance or the dog owner’s insurance will cover the costs—but the reality is more complicated.
This article will dive deep into dog bite liability in Australia, the types of insurance that may cover injuries, the legal options available, and how to financially protect yourself from unexpected dog bite expenses.
1. Understanding Dog Bite Liability in Australia
Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite?
In Australia, dog owners are legally responsible for their pets. If a dog attacks a person or another pet, the owner can be held liable for medical bills, lost wages, and damages.
State-by-State Dog Bite Laws
Each state has its own laws regarding dog ownership and liability:
| State/Territory | Strict Liability for Dog Owners? | Penalties for Dangerous Dogs |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Yes | Fines up to $77,000, imprisonment, dog seizure |
| VIC | Yes | Up to $96,000 fine, potential euthanasia |
| QLD | Yes | Up to $108,000 fine, criminal charges possible |
| WA | Yes | $10,000 fine, mandatory training or destruction |
| SA | Yes | Up to $50,000 fine, registration cancellation |
| TAS | Yes | $3,460 fine, possible seizure |
| NT | Yes | $2,000 fine, destruction for repeat offences |
| ACT | Yes | Up to $15,000 fine |
Even though liability is clear, many dog owners do not have insurance to cover such incidents, leaving victims with high out-of-pocket expenses.
2. Personal Insurance That May Cover Dog Bites
Not all insurance policies cover dog attacks. Here’s a breakdown of what types of insurance may cover dog bites and their limitations:
Home & Contents Insurance
Many Australian home and contents insurance policies include public liability insurance, which covers injuries caused by a pet inside the insured property. However, exclusions may apply if:
- The dog is a restricted breed.
- The attack occurs outside the property.
- The owner was negligent.
Public Liability Insurance
Public liability insurance covers injuries caused by a dog outside the home. Some landlords also carry this insurance to protect against tenant-related dog bites.
Pet Insurance
Pet insurance rarely covers injuries caused by your dog to another person. It mainly covers vet bills for the dog itself, not third-party damages.
Personal Injury Insurance
Personal injury insurance may cover medical bills and lost wages if a policyholder is bitten by a dog. However, claim limits apply, and negligence must be proven in some cases.
Workers’ Compensation & Business Liability Insurance
If a dog bites someone at work, workers’ compensation may cover medical costs. Businesses with on-site dogs (such as security firms or dog trainers) may have liability insurance for bites occurring on their premises.
Private Health Insurance & Medicare
Medicare covers basic medical treatment, but not lost wages or psychological trauma. Private health insurance may cover rehabilitation and ongoing medical costs, but legal expenses won’t be covered.
3. Real Cost of a Dog Bite in Australia
Medical Costs
- Minor Bite Treatment: $200 – $1,500 (GP visits, wound care, antibiotics)
- Hospitalisation: $2,000 – $20,000 (Surgery, infection treatment)
- Rehabilitation: $1,000 – $10,000 (Physiotherapy, long-term care)
Legal Costs
- Hiring a Lawyer: $300 – $700 per hour
- Court Fees: $500 – $10,000 (varies by case complexity)
- Compensation Payouts: Average settlements range from $10,000 to $100,000 for severe injuries.
4. How to Claim Insurance for a Dog Bite
- Seek medical treatment immediately (your insurance may require medical reports).
- Report the bite to local council authorities and obtain an official record.
- Gather evidence (photos of injuries, witness statements, medical reports).
- Contact the insurance provider (either yours or the dog owner’s).
- File a formal claim with supporting documents.
- Negotiate or appeal if denied (many insurance companies reject claims initially).
5. Legal Consequences and Financial Risks for Dog Owners
Fines and Criminal Charges
Dog owners can face severe penalties if their pet attacks someone. In addition to fines, repeat offenders may face criminal charges, including jail time.
Compensation Claims
Victims can sue for compensation, which may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma
A serious case can lead to six-figure settlements, putting financial strain on uninsured dog owners.
6. Preventing Dog Bite Incidents
Training and Socialisation
Proper training and socialisation can significantly reduce the risk of dog bites. Owners should:
- Expose their dogs to different environments and people.
- Train dogs to obey commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.”
- Use positive reinforcement techniques.
Safe Handling Around Strangers
Always:
- Keep dogs on a leash in public.
- Avoid provoking or startling dogs.
- Educate children on safe dog interactions.
7. Conclusion: Protecting Yourself and Others
Dog bites can have severe financial and legal consequences. Whether you’re a dog owner or a victim, knowing your rights and insurance coverage is essential. By taking preventive measures and ensuring proper insurance protection, Australians can reduce the risks associated with dog attacks and ensure financial security.
Important link