At its meeting on 26 May 2025, the City of Stonnington resolved not to proceed with awarding the animal management services tender and instead extend its current partnership with Save-A-Dog Scheme (SADS) until 30 June 2026.
Council also voted to establish a new Stonnington Animal Management Task Force by 30 June 2025. The Task Force will include at least two Councillors, animal welfare experts, and community representatives with demonstrated experience in business, finance or strategic planning. Its purpose will be to review future models for animal management and provide recommendations to Council by December 2025.
Council officers will now:
- Finalise the current tender process with no contract to be awarded at this stage
- Work to secure a new agreement with SADS through to June 2026
- Support Councillors to establish the Task Force and recommend qualified, independent members for consideration
- Continue delivering programs aligned with the Domestic Animal Management Plan, including desexing and adoption support
Stonnington Mayor, Cr Melina Sehr, said while the new direction differed from the officer recommendation, the decision provides an opportunity to further explore models that align with community expectations.
"Council remains committed to an approach that represents the breadth of perspectives across the Stonnington community and ensures our pound service remains grounded in animal welfare outcomes, as well as transparent and professional management, and financial sustainability," Cr Sehr said.
"While our officers conducted a robust and fair tender process, that resulted in a robust recommendation, Council has the ability to take a different path – and that's what happened on Monday night. We now look forward to supporting the transition and getting the Task Force established."
Council thanks The Lost Dogs' Home for its tender submission.
The Task Force will explore a range of models for service delivery, including regional partnerships, in-house options, philanthropic support or potential commercial arrangements.
Council will decide Task Force membership and Terms of Reference in the coming weeks.
