Share your thoughts on Animal Plan

THE City of Greater Bendigo has called for feedback on its draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2025-2029 and an amended Keeping of Animals Local Law.

The amended Local Law has simplified requirements for poultry housing, removed the ability to obtain a permit for a rooster in residential areas and increased the number of cats allowed in a residential area to three.

Over 450 residents contributed to the draft Plan either by completing a community survey or by making a submission.

Key findings from the survey revealed that 98 per cent of respondents knew about the City’s 24-hour cat containment regulation, introduced on 1 July last year, while 78 per cent reported they’d spotted cats either in public spaces or not on their owners’ property.

Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the City has a legislative requirement under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 to prepare the Domestic Animal Management Plan and this is the fifth version it has developed.

“Companion animals have been part of our lives since recorded history, with dogs and cats playing an important role in the daily lives of many residents,” Cr Metcalf said.

“Therefore, it’s vital for the City to undertake the necessary planning to ensure that pets, pet owners and non-pet owners can coexist in a harmonious way.”

Comments and feedback, which must be received by Wednesday 17 September, can be provided on the City’s Let’s Talk community engagement website.

The final Plan is expected to go before council for adoption later this year.