Status: Closed


The City has a legislative requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (the Act) to prepare a Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP).

The draft DAMP was developed following a period of community consultation. A survey was developed to ensure that the requirements of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 were met and to ensure that the DAMP would balance the needs of the community, pet owners and non-pet owners.

The online survey gave residents the opportunity to provide feedback including experiences and opinions which were analysed and used to provide guidance on the direction for the 2021 – 2025 DAMP. The survey was open for almost four weeks, and received a record number of online responses, with a total of 1131 contributions from the community.

The draft DAMP was available for community review and comment from September 21 - October 11, 2021. Council’s aim was to develop a comprehensive plan informed by community engagement that manages domestic animals across the municipality and promotes responsible pet ownership. The finalised plan was adopted by Council on 15 November 2021

The Domestic Animal Management Plan is required by the Domestic Animals Act to consider the following:

  • Whether the animal control services are adequate
  • Outline programs for training of authorised officers so as to properly administer and enforce the Act
  • Outline programs to:
    • Minimise potential for dogs and cats to create a nuisance
    • Encourage registration and identification of dogs and cats
    • Address any over-population and high euthanasia rates for dogs and cats
    • Minimise risk of dog attacks
    • Effectively identify and manage all dangerous dogs, menacing dogs and restricted breed dogs
    • Promote and encourage responsible pet ownership
    • Ensure the community understand the obligations of responsible pet ownership
  • Review existing orders and Local Laws
  • Provide platform for review of any other matters related to the management of dogs and cats
  • Periodic evaluation of the DAMP