Swan Hill Rural City Council is preparing a new Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 and is seeking input from residents to help shape the future of domestic animal management across the municipality.
Council’s Director Development and Planning, Michelle Grainger said that Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, all Victorian councils are required to develop and implement a Domestic Animal Management Plan every four years.
“Our upcoming plan will outline procedures for managing dogs and cats, guide how we invest time and resources, and promote responsible pet ownership while supporting the safety and well-being of the entire community,” Ms Grainger said.
Ms Grainger highlighted that the plan would help guide Council’s approach to key issues such as registration and identification of pets, enforcement of local laws, management of dogs in public places, and programs to address nuisance behaviour like barking or wandering animals.
“It will also support Council’s efforts to promote desexing and microchipping, and to provide education about responsible pet ownership,” she said.
Council’s Mayor, Cr Stuart King said community feedback was vital to ensuring the plan reflects local needs.
“Whether you’re a pet owner or not, we want to hear from you. Domestic animal management affects all members of our community - from dog walkers and cat owners to people who simply want to feel safe and enjoy our wonderful public spaces.
“Your feedback will help us strike the right balance between supporting responsible pet ownership and protecting the interests of the broader community,” Cr King said.
“Residents are encouraged to share their views by completing an online survey. Council will also host in-person consultation sessions in both Swan Hill and Robinvale, giving people the opportunity to speak directly with staff and provide feedback on issues that matter most to them,” Cr King said.
The online survey will be open from 1 July to the 31 July. For more information and to get involved, visit letstalk.swanhill.vic.gov.au
In-person consultation session details:
Tuesday 8 July 2025 11am – 12 noon
Tower Hill - in-person consultation session
Venue: Tower Hill Park, Swan Hill
Monday 21 July 2025 11am – 12 noon
Riverside Park - in-person consultation session
Venue: Riverside Park, Swan Hill
Thursday 24 July 2025 11am – 1pm
Robinvale - in-person consultation session
Venue: Caix Square