Saturday, November 9, 2024

Queensland to put bite on irresponsible dog owners

Tougher penalties for irresponsible Queensland dog owners are a step closer, following the latest meeting of the State Government’s animal management taskforce.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities, Mark Furner, chaired a meeting of the state’s Mayors and Councillors, as well as representatives from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, RSPCA Queensland and the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) yesterday.

The Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to reforming the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2008, with a view to progressing reforms that are a priority for councils and the community.

“As a government, we have publicly affirmed the way forward when it comes to dealing with dangerous dogs with the help of the taskforce,” said Minister Furner.

“I would like to thank the members of the taskforce, including mayors and councillors from across Queensland for their valuable input.

“The Palaszczuk Government wants to support councils to enforce animal management practices with strong legislation, which will be informed by public consultation on the discussion paper.

“I look forward further consultation with the community, and I’ll be encouraging everyone to have their say on the proposed reforms.”

Proposed reforms include:

  • Increases in penalties for the most serious dog attack offences, including imprisonment as an option;
  • A ban on restricted dog breeds;
  • Development of a community education program;
  • Fast-tracking of decisions and appeals on the future of seized dangerous animals;
  • Continued assessment of further tough reforms through the taskforce and technical working group process.

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