Orange City Council will again offer a subsidised desexing program for local pet owners, following a decision at a Council meeting to continue the initiative through the Companion Animal Community Committee.
The program is designed to help reduce the number of unwanted and stray animals in the Orange Local Government Area while supporting residents who may otherwise struggle with the cost of desexing.
Under the 2026 program, eligible residents will be able to access low‑cost desexing for both cats and dogs, with fees set at $70 per cat and $80 per dog.
The price includes desexing surgery and microchipping where the animal is not already chipped.
The normal cost of desexing a cat or dog can be upwards of $500.
The subsidised program is open to Orange LGA residents who hold a current pension or concession card.
There is no household limit on the number of animals that can be included in the program.
Orange City Council's Environmental Sustainability Committee Chair Cr David Mallard said that desexing remains one of the most effective ways to reduce roaming, nuisance behaviour and the number of animals entering pounds and rescue services.
"This program is about responsible pet ownership and supporting our community," Cr Mallard said.
"By making desexing more affordable, we can help reduce the number of stray and unwanted animals while improving animal welfare outcomes across the LGA."
Bookings for the program will open from Monday 30 March 2026, with places limited and allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Residents are encouraged to ensure their concession or pension cards are current at the time of booking and to act quickly once bookings open due to strong demand in previous years.
To make a booking, residents will need to confirm eligibility. We are inviting participants to visit Council's Customer Service Centre and present a valid pension or concession card.
For updates and booking information, residents should keep an eye on Council's website and social media channels.
