Peter Kennedy, 28, pleaded guilty to seven charges on Thursday, including threatening to inflict serious injury, threatening to damage property and unlawful assault.

Ballarat Magistrates Court was told Kennedy and the victim were in a relationship when he stood over her with the machete, calling her offensive names at 5am on September 24, 2016.

Prosecutor Kim Swadesir said Kennedy then threatened to slit the dog’s throat. The victim became frightened and locked herself and the dog in a room.

Ms Swadesir said Kennedy started to stab the door with the machete and a hunting knife before entering the room and grabbing her by the throat. He then swung a broom at her, threw an ashtray at her head and kicked her.

Defence barrister Amie Hancock said Kennedy had been a drug user since he was 12-years-old but had been drug-free for the longest time in his life.

“(The victim) supports Mr Kennedy. She is impressed by Mr Kennedy’s change in attitude since being in custody. She will continue to be supportive of Mr Kennedy if he remains drug-free,” Ms Hancock said.

Magistrate Ronald Saines told Kennedy his offending was to intimidate the victim. “This is serious domestic violence. If you think another way, you have a long way to go in this community.”

He said he would sentence Kennedy to jail, indicating it would be longer than the 214 days he has already served.