NT - Dangerous Animal Guideline - Crocodiles as Pets

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) opposes the keeping of crocodiles as pets in the Northern Territory, on the basis of animal welfare, public safety, and the absence of a practical and ethical framework for veterinary care.

Crocodiles are wild animals with highly specialised biological, behavioural, and environmental needs that cannot be met in private settings. The AVA’s submission highlights the significant welfare risks associated with private ownership, as well as the challenges and dangers involved in providing routine and emergency veterinary treatment.

The submission also raises concerns about traceability, enforcement, and the broader risks of normalising private ownership of a dangerous wild species.

If the Northern Territory Government nevertheless proceeds with a permit scheme, the AVA recommends that, at a minimum, it include:

• strict limits on ownership and clear exclusions for private “pet” keeping

• mandatory compliance with national crocodilian welfare standards

• robust licensing, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms

• clear and enforceable veterinary care requirements

• strong penalties for non-compliance.

You can view the full submission here.