Plan Sets Direction for Next Four Years
Knox Council has endorsed a new Domestic Animal Management Plan to guide animal services through 2029. Importantly, the plan strengthens support for responsible dog and cat ownership across the municipality. Council developed the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 after reviewing 473 community submissions.
Feedback came from pet owners, non-pet owners, park users and domestic animal businesses. As a result, the plan reflects broad community expectations around safety, education and compliance. Knox is currently home to about 16,640 registered dogs and 6,482 registered cats. Therefore, clear and modern management strategies remain essential.
Community Concerns Shape Key Priorities
Community members raised several recurring concerns during consultation.
In particular, many residents highlighted confusion around dog off-leash areas and rules. Additionally, residents called for stronger action on uncollected dog waste in parks and reserves. Meanwhile, others requested practical solutions to ongoing cat management issues. Furthermore, submissions supported stronger education around registration, desexing and microchipping. Effective control of dogs in public spaces also featured prominently in feedback. Consequently, Council has aligned its actions with these identified priorities.
Off-Leash Rules Under Review
Council will undertake an extensive review of off-leash restrictions. Notably, these rules have not been reviewed since 2005. This review will examine suitability, signage, compliance and community understanding. As a result, residents can expect clearer guidance across parks and reserves.
Education, Desexing and Registration Focus
Over the next four years, Council will increase education on responsible pet ownership.
Specifically, campaigns will encourage residents to collect and dispose of dog waste properly. Council will also investigate ways to increase the number of desexed dogs.
At the same time, officers will explore options for a community cat program or desexing initiative. In addition, Council plans to expand programs that boost pet registrations.
Updated registration data helps reunite lost pets with their owners faster. Council will also review its barking dog process and supporting information.
Moreover, it will assess animal management rules and fines during the Local Law Review. Free or low-cost dog training sessions will support responsible ownership across Knox.
Free First-Year Registration Continues
Council will continue offering first-year registration free for pets adopted from registered shelters. This incentive encourages responsible adoption while supporting local rescue organisations. Registrations for cats and dogs must be renewed by 10 April. Therefore, residents should ensure details remain current and accurate. Ultimately, the endorsed plan aims to balance pet enjoyment with community amenity.
As Knox grows, responsible ownership will remain central to that balance.
