Community & Business
7 July, 2023
Have your say on new dog laws
New dangerous dog offences including potential jail time for owners in the event of serious attacks, are under the microscope and it’s time for locals to have their say.
New dangerous dog offences including potential jail time for owners in the event of serious attacks, are under the microscope and it’s time for locals to have their say.
A discussion paper has been released detailing the proposals and the State Government is calling on communities to submit their thoughts.
The proposed new laws would make it law to for all dogs to be effectively controlled in public places.
People can also have their say on whether certain dog breeds should be banned, as well as whether on-the-spot fines for off-leash dogs should be imposed.
The taskforce, made up of Mayors and Councillors from across Queensland, the Local Government Association of Queensland, RSPCA and senior Department of Agriculture and Fisheries officers, was established to undertake a targeted review of the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2008.
Submissions on the discussion paper can be submitted until midnight on Thursday 24 August.
The proposals to strengthen the current requirements are based on feedback provided by the taskforce and its technical working group.
Local Government Association of Queensland chief executive officer Alison Smith said a key solution from councils in the consultation paper was to fast-track decisions and appeals on the future of seized dangerous animals.
“This is an opportunity for the community to say enough is enough – that Queensland needs to take tougher actions on irresponsible dog owners, and for there to be swift processes in place after a savage dog attack has happened,” Ms Smith said.
To view the discussion paper and have your say visit daf.engagementhub.com.au/dog-laws. To obtain a copy of the discussion paper call 13 25 23.
