A court outcome imposing a record $54,000 fine under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 has highlighted the serious criminal and financial consequences linked to Victoria’s illegal exotic pet trade. 

The penalty followed the disruption of an illegal operation involving brokers, breeders and keepers of prohibited exotic animals across the state. This case has prompted a new statewide public awareness campaign, Cage Closed, launched by Crime Stoppers Victoria in partnership with Agriculture Victoria. 

The ‘Cage Closed’ campaign aims to raise awareness of the illegal trade of exotic pest animals and the serious legal and financial consequences faced by those involved. This record penalty sends a clear message: keeping, breeding or trading exotic animals contributes to a criminal supply chain that can lead to investigation, seizure and prosecution.  

Exotic animals detected through illegal networks have included African pygmy hedgehogs, tortoises, snakes and iguanas. Authorities warn that these animals are often sourced, transported and kept in unsafe conditions and can cause serious harm if they escape or are released into the environment. 

Biosecurity Manager for High-Risk Invasive Animals at Agriculture Victoria Adam Kay said illegal exotic pest animals pose a serious threat to animal welfare, biosecurity and the environment. 

“Many of these animals are smuggled or bred in cruel and unsafe conditions, with little regard for their health or wellbeing,” he said. 

“Whether you are brokering a deal, breeding animals or keeping one at home, you are contributing to an illegal market.” 

“When exotic pest animals escape or are released, they can spread disease, harm native wildlife and create long-term environmental damage,” Mr Kay said. 

Crime Stoppers Victoria Chief Executive Stella Smith said the campaign is designed to make the risks and penalties impossible to ignore. 

“People often underestimate the seriousness of these offences,” Ms Smith said. 

“If you are involved, knowingly or not, now is the time to stop and do the right thing. The law is clear, and the penalties are significant.” 

The ‘Cage Closed’ campaign encourages Victorians to report suspected illegal activity and take an active role in preventing further offending. 

“When members of the community speak up, it breaks the animal supply chain. You can report anonymously, and your information can directly lead to animals being rescued and offenders being held to account,” Ms Smith said. 

“We want to say ‘Cage Closed’ on the illegal exotic animal trade in Victoria, but we need the community’s help to do that. Do the right thing, surrender any illegal exotic pests and report what you know to Crime Stoppers.”