A proposal to raise the maximum penalty for animal cruelty acts to a $100,000 fine and 12 months' jail from the existing $5,000 fine and six months' jail will be tabled to lawmakers on July 5, Health, Welfare & Food Bureau says.

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Amendment) Bill 2006, gazetted today, seeks to impose a heavier penalty on animal-cruelty offences to serve a stronger deterrent effect.

Under the amendment bill, the maximum penalty for animal cruelty acts, such as beating, kicking and torture, will be raised from the current penalty of a $5,000 fine and six months' jail to a $100,000 fine and 12 months' jail.

The bureau said a heavier penalty is necessary in view of the recent animal cruelty cases and public concerns about animal abuse. The proposed penalty level is in line with other developed countries.