Does Animal Law falls under Criminal Law?

[blaisdell]

I'm doing a research about Australian Legal System, and my topic is "Should offences against animals be criminalized?"

I'm thinking that Australian Criminal Law should put offences against animals in the system, because as far as I know there are only offences against person, property and public order.

Can somebody help me with the research?
Or at least give me the link related to my topic.

Thanks!

[banys]

I am Canadian in the commonwealth, so our laws are somewhat similar. Most animal cases are treated as civil law, i.e between two parties and not the State. Such as disputes over ownership, pooping, trespassing etc.
However, in two scenarios it becomes criminal. If the animals attacks a person, the State can rule to have the dog put down and fine the owner, or in severe cases jailed. And for animal abuse, such as dog fighting etc. it is the State vs. an individual (therefore criminal) and can result in up to 1 year in jail.