The dog had never bitten anyone before - does that defeat the claim?

No. Most state Dog Acts impose strict liability on owners regardless of the dog's history. The "first bite free" rule applied historically but has been displaced by statutory strict liability in modern Australian law.

I was bitten on the owner's property - can I still claim?

Yes, generally. Being on the property as an invited guest, postal worker, tradesperson, or other lawful entrant doesn't affect liability. Trespassers face a slightly different analysis - but children entering yards are usually still protected.

The owner says it's the dog's "fault", not theirs - does that matter?

No. The owner is the legal person responsible. The dog isn't a legal entity. Owners can't shift liability by blaming the animal.

I'm scared of all dogs now - can I claim for psychological injury?

Yes. Post-attack psychological injuries - PTSD, specific phobia of dogs, anxiety - are well-recognised in Australian compensation. Treating psychologist evidence is critical.

Dog Attack Compensation Australia

Strict liability under state Dog Acts

Most Australian states impose strict liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their dog. This means the owner's lack of intent or knowledge of viciousness is generally not a defence. Examples:

NSW Companion Animals Act 1998
VIC Domestic Animals Act 1994
QLD Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008
WA Dog Act 1976

Strict liability simplifies claims - you don't need to prove the owner was negligent in keeping the dog. Where the dog attacked, the owner is liable.

Who pays - and finding the insurance

Owners commonly carry public liability insurance through their home and contents policy or rental insurance. Where the dog is at a workplace, business public liability may apply. Where the owner is uninsured, recovery depends on personal assets - which can be limited.

Specialist lawyers identify all available insurance:

Owner's home and contents policy (most common)
Renter's insurance
Business public liability where dog is at workplace
Strata insurance for common-area attacks in apartment buildings

Compensation amounts

Dog attack settlements depend on injury severity, scarring, and psychological impact:

Minor bites, full recovery: $5,000 – $25,000
Bites requiring stitches, minor scarring: $20,000 – $80,000
Significant scarring, particularly facial: $80,000 – $400,000
Child victim with scarring or trauma: $100,000 – $600,000+
Severe attack, permanent impairment, surgery: $200,000 – $1,000,000+
Psychological injury (PTSD, dog phobia): $50,000 – $200,000 (often added to physical injury claim)

Child victims

Dog attacks involving children attract specific considerations:

Statute of limitations doesn't run until the child turns 18 - extended time to claim
Damages calculations include lifetime impact (work, social functioning)
Cosmetic surgery costs over decades can be substantial
Psychological trauma is more commonly persistent

Settlements for child dog-attack victims commonly include trust arrangements managed until age 18 (or 25 in some structures).

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