Kingston is a community of pet lovers, and Council is inviting feedback on our new draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-2029 now on public exhibition.
The plan aims to promote responsible pet ownership and provide a safer environment for all members of the community - both people and animals.
Mayor Cr Georgina Oxley said the plan had been shaped by community input gathered earlier this year.
"We know how much our community cares about their pets, and we're proud to be a city that welcomes them," Cr Oxley said.
"At the same time, our community has told us they value responsible ownership to help protect pets, people and wildlife. This plan reflects those views and sets a clear way forward."
The draft plan introduces a range of enhanced programs and new initiatives, including:
- Continued proactive education and promotion of responsible pet ownership.
- Investigation of low-cost desexing programs to support pet owners and reduce the number of animals euthanised.
- Promotion of the benefits of animal registration, alongside initiatives to encourage increased registration of dogs and cats.
- Education and enforcement of dog regulations at Council reserves and the foreshore, with targeted patrols at problem locations.
- A review of the current dusk-until-dawn cat curfew, with consideration of a 24/7 curfew in the future to protect both cats and local wildlife.
Cr Oxley said the draft plan seeks to balance support for pet owners with the needs of the wider community.
"This is about education, support and working together," she said.
"We want Kingston to continue being a safe, pet-friendly city where animals are cared for responsibly and our environment is respected.
"As with all our consultations, we are very keen to hear the views of our community, so I am encouraging everyone to have their say."
