Swan Hill Rural City Council is reminding residents that its new 24-hour cat containment order will take effect from January 1, 2025.
Council Director Development and Planning, Michelle Grainger said the measure was being
introduced to enhance the welfare of domestic cats, protect local wildlife, and promote responsible pet ownership, across the municipality.
“Following a significant amount community engagement and feedback a 24-hour cat containment order will be introduced across the municipality from 1 January,” said Ms Grainger.
“Under the new order, all cats must be confined to their owners’ properties, at all times, unless the cat is appropriately restrained in a cat carrier or leashed. This can be achieved through secure indoor spaces or outdoor enclosures.
“We are encouraging residents to take proactive steps to ensure their cats are safe and
comfortable within these boundaries.”
Ms Grainger said the containment order reflected Council’s commitment to balancing the needs of pet owners, wildlife, and the broader community.
“This initiative not only helps to protect our native wildlife from predation but also keeps cats safer by reducing their risk of injury, disease, or becoming lost,” she said.
Ms Grainger said the containment order would commence with a 6-month grace period and during this time cat owners would not receive infringement penalties for cats at large, but pound release and registration fees, may apply.
“During the 6-month grace period our focus will be on education and working with cat owners to keep their cats safe and contained.”
“From 1 July 2025 enforcement action for non-compliance will commence.”
She said all residents with a registered cat can expect to receive a text message from
Council advising them of the implementation of the new 24-hour Cat Containment Order.
For more information about the 24-hour cat containment order, including tips for successful
containment, please visit the Council’s website.
