In Victoria it is an offence for a person responsible for a child to leave the child unattended for any longer than is reasonable, without making appropriate arrangements for the child’s supervision and care. This includes leaving a child unattended in a car.

The penalties for leaving a child unattended in a car in Victoria include:

• A fine (currently $4,030), or;
• A maximum of 6 months imprisonment, or
• Both.

Children, Youth and Families Act (2005)
Section 494 – Offence to leave a child unattended
Page 386