Mitchell Shire Council is stepping up enforcement in response to a troubling rise in dog-related incidents across the region - including attacks on people and livestock, dogs wandering at large, and uncontrolled behaviour in public spaces. These incidents have serious consequences for community safety, animal welfare, and local livelihoods.
In addition to the Shire-wide on-leash order that came into effect on 1 July 2025, Council is cracking down on irresponsible dog ownership with tougher penalties and clearer expectations.
Dog owners who fail to register, contain, or control their dogs will face fines:
- owning an unregistered dog incurs a $407 fine
- allowing a dog to wander at large during the day results in a $305 fine, increasing to $407 at night
- a non-serious dog attack carries a $509 penalty
These fines are based on the Victorian penalty unit system, with one unit currently valued at $203.60. While registered dogs may receive one "get out of jail" card per year for minor infractions, repeat or serious breaches will not be tolerated. Attacks on livestock are treated with particular seriousness - dogs may be destroyed if deemed dangerous by the courts.
Supporting responsible ownership
The crackdown follows extensive community consultation in late 2024, with over 700 responses showing strong support for clearer rules and tougher enforcement.
Council has designated off-leash areas where dogs can exercise freely under effective control. For maps and details, residents are encouraged to visit Dog parks and off-leash areas or download the My Mitchell app.
For practical guidance on registration, containment, desexing, and nuisance prevention visit Dog ownership.
Council thanks all who contributed feedback and reminds dog owners, this is about safety, accountability, and respect. Responsible ownership isn't just a rule - it's a shared commitment to community wellbeing.
