MEDIA RELEASE - HAVE YOUR SAY

HAVE YOUR SAY ON DRAFT DOMESTIC ANIMAL POLICY

We all love our animals, however there are times when the keeping of domestic animals can become a contentious issue between neighbours and the broader community.

The draft Keeping of Domestic Animals Policy, which is currently on public exhibition seeks to inform the community of the main statutory restrictions and gives guidance and advice on acceptable limits which apply to the keeping of certain animals for domestic purposes. It also seeks to minimise local nuisance and ensure that the keeping of animals does not compromise minimum standards of public health, safety, and convenience.

The policy allows Council to establish local standards that are acceptable to the community, for the keeping of domestic animals. It also outlines the circumstances that the Council will consider in determining whether to serve an Order under section 124 of the Local Government Act 1993 to prohibit, restrict or some other way, require things to be done regarding the keeping of animals.

The community can be assured that it is not the intention of Council nor the policy to aggressively enforce the controls within this document but to work with the owner of the animals to ensure that their keeping does not have an adverse impact on the adjoining premises. However, there may be occasions, where complaints are made to Council of animals of an inappropriate kind or number are being kept or where the animals and their accommodation are not being looked after properly.

To allow residents to learn more about the draft policy, Council staff will visit communities across the shire this week to answer any questions residents may have. Session times and locations are as follows: Tottenham, Wednesday 28 July at Foodworks from 11am – 12noon, Condobolin, Thursday 29 July at the Council’s Administration Building 1pm - 3pm, Lake Cargelligo, Friday 30 July at the Service Centre 11am – 12.30pm and Tullibigeal Post Office from 9am - 10am. People attending these sessions are reminded to comply with current COVID-19 restrictions and are asked to please wear a face mask when talking to Council staff.

Should you be unable to attend the pop-up sessions or if you would like to discuss the policy further, please contact Council's Environment, Tourism, and Economic Development department on 02 6895 1900 or email [email protected] 

The community is reminded that feedback on the policy closes on 4 August 2021.