Council has approved its new four-year Domestic Animal Management Plan, to take effect from 2026-2029.
The plan focuses on promoting responsible pet ownership, safeguarding animal welfare, and highlighting the many benefits pets bring to our lives.
It was developed following an extensive two-phased community and stakeholder engagement program, during which Council outlined how it will manage dogs and cats within its municipal boundaries.
The key objectives of the plan include enhancing public safety, creating an environment that encourages responsible pet ownership, and minimising nuisances caused by pets, such as noise or environmental impacts.
Among these objectives, the Domestic Animal Management Plan identifies how Council will:
- Promote responsible pet ownership through education and enforcement
- Support and facilitate the benefits of animal ownership and companionship
- Ensure compliance by owners of declared dangerous, menacing, and restricted breed dogs
- Provide for the welfare of cats and dogs
- Reduce the number of unwanted animals bred and euthanised
"Our community is home to thousands of pets - and their people. From off-leash areas to barking complaints, reuniting lost pets to encouraging adoption - good animal management affects everyone," Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said.
"Pet ownership provides a wide range of physical, emotional, social and practical benefits for individuals, families, and communities.
"Our goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where both people and pets can thrive together."
The Domestic Animal Management Plan is a statutory document due every four years. This plan has been developed in accordance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994 and will be submitted to the Government as per legislation.
To view the new Domestic Animal Management Plan, visit this link.
