We are currently seeking feedback on the draft 2026-29 Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-29. (link)

Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, every Victorian Council is required to develop and implement a plan every four years.

Councils are required to outline their services, programs and policies to address the administration of the Act and how they manage dog and cat issues in their communities.

In July 2025 Council engaged with the community to gather feedback for the development of the new plan. This involved an online survey and four community information sessions.

Respondents were asked to answer a series of questions about responsible pet ownership and their knowledge of the rules for dogs and cats, nuisance issues and their views on what our priorities for the next four years should be.

The highest rated priorities were:

• Low-cost dog and cat desexing programs
• Cheaper registration
• Free cat trapping program
• Free microchipping program
• More dog parks
• Reducing wandering cats

This feedback has helped us develop the objectives for the next four years.We’d now like to hear people’s thoughts on the draft plan. Submissions close at 5pm, 23 October 2025.

Online: please complete the online form below

Email: council@swanhill.vic.gov.au

Post:

Attn: Chief Executive Officer

Swan Hill Rural City Council,

PO Box 488, Swan Hill VIC 3585