Community members have six weeks to comment on a plan for management of pet cats and dogs within Colac Otway Shire.
Council has released the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan for public consultation.
The Domestic Animal Management Plan promotes responsible pet ownership, protects the welfare of dogs and cats, and protects the community, amenity and the environment from nuisance dogs and cats.
Council has reviewed the existing plan to ensure it's in line with current legislation and community priorities. Changes include proposals for cat confinement, leash areas for dogs, and potential future dog parks.
Council initially implemented a Cat Confinement Order in 2023, requiring owners to keep cats in confinement from sunset to sunrise to protect wildlife.
The draft Plan proposes an extension of the current Cat Confinement Order to 24-hour containment within the property, requiring cats to be kept within buildings or in confined enclosures outdoors at all times.
The current DAMP requires dogs to be on leads in limited areas, such as the Colac CBD and Lake Colac foreshore. The draft Plan proposes extending the rule to all township areas in the shire.
The plan also proposes a review to determine options for future dog parks in the shire.
Council is establishing a dog park at Colac's Central Reserve in Colac this year, and will review the park's success to determine whether Council should explore options for dog parks in other townships.
Community members can view the draft Plan on Council's website or in-person at Council's Customer Service Centre. Submissions close at 5pm Wednesday 3 September 2025.
Quotes may be attributed to Infrastructure and Environment General Manager Doug McNeill
"This plan is a crucial step in ensuring the welfare of our pets, the safety of our residents, and the amenity of our towns.
"I encourage pet owners and the general public to have a look at the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan, and to make submissions to help us create a safe and harmonious environment for both people and pets.
"The current Cat Confinement Order has resulted in fewer complaints concerning domestic cats in the shire. Extending the order will improve the welfare of pet cats, while protecting local wildlife and neighbourhood amenity from roaming cats.
"The extension of on-lead areas for dogs is in response to feedback from the community about dogs off lead in various areas.
"We understand that off-lead time is important for dogs, which is why we're establishing a dog park in Colac, but we need to balance this with public safety, amenity and the welfare of pet dogs."
