News

Draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 Now Open

16 October 2025

Over 350 people shared their thoughts in Stage 1, highlighting the importance of responsible pet ownership, education, and animal welfare. You told us you’d like more patrols, clearer information on pet responsibilities, and continued work to support rehoming and ethical breeding. The Draft Plan is now open - take a look and tell us what you think in our short survey open until the 29 October.

Community feedback from the first stage of the engagement has helped shape several priorities for the next four years. Proactive directions based on community input included in the draft Plan are:

Animal Management Officers will increase their presence in the community through patrols, information sessions and education about responsible pet ownership and effective dog control in public spaces.

A dedicated engagement will be held in future to review the current cat curfew and containment requirements. This will give the community an opportunity to share views and help shape any future changes.

Council will continue raising awareness through education, attendance at local events, and social media campaigns to help pet owners understand their responsibilities and support positive pet behaviour.

Council will continue auditing non-compliant backyard breeders and work to improve overall animal welfare standards across the municipality.