The remaining 13 charges against Mr Sammut would be dismissed once the guilty plea was entered, Mr Stafford said outside court, including five counts of failing to register dogs he owned.

They also include four counts of failing to provide proper drink to his dogs, two counts of failing to provide veterinary attention to his dogs, and failing to provide proper food to his dogs, each of which carries a fine of $36,312.00 or 12 months' imprisonment.

Wyndham Council's chief executive officer, Kerry Thompson told Fairfax Media their goal was to ensure Mr Sammut would "not be able to operate a puppy farm again and to be penalised financially for the pain and suffering inflicted on defenceless animals".

Ms Thompson said the council agreed to drop the other charges because they did not want to risk "an unsatisfactory finding with the most serious charge".

If Mr Sammut pleaded guilty, he would continue to be inspected by officers "to ensure that these abhorrent activities are not re-established", she said.