People who mistreat animals are set to face tougher penalties, including fines of up to $250,000 or 10 years jail as part of the state government's commitment to strengthen the Animal Welfare Act.
This is a significant increase on the current $50,000 maximum fine or four years in jail for the aggravated ill treatment of an animal.
Corporations found guilty of mistreating animals could risk fines of up to $1 million.
The proposed changes- the first update of the Act in 15 years- have been released for community consultation.
The reform also include a new 'duty of care' provision that require owners to provide animals with a minimum level of care, such as adequate food and water.
This provision aims to create opportunities for the RSPCA, the organisation empowered to enforce the Animal Welfare Act, to address neglect prior to an animal being harmed.
Environment Minister Susan Close says most people show great care to animals but those who deliberately mistreat them "deserve to face serious consequences".
"Tougher penalties, along with other reforms to the Animal Welfare Act, will play an important role in reducing incidents of animal cruelty," she said.
Ms Close says the reforms are the state government's commitment to ensure the laws match community expectations but encourages the community to have their say on the final amendments.
Other proposed changes to the Act include recognising that animals experience pain and fear, improving regulation, oversight and transparency of animal research and updating the governance and role of the Animal Welfare Advisory Committee.
There are also changes to recognise interstate animal cruelty bans so offenders can't just move to SA and, for example, set up a breeding kennel.
RSPCA chief executive officer Marcus Gehrig says he is encouraged by the review and is looking forward to reading a draft.
He also understands that many of the recommendations RSPCA had in its submission have been incorporated which is pleasing.
"We encourage all South Australians who share our passion for animal welfare to take the time to read this draft and have their say on these vital legal reforms," he said.
Submissions close on May 19 with the final bill to be tabled in Parliament later this year.
To have your say go to https://yoursay.sa.gov.au/animal-welfare-draft-bill.
