Domestic Animal Management Plan Survey

Published on 29 August 2025

Southern Grampians Shire Council is calling on the community to help shape the way cats and dogs are managed across the Shire for the next four years.

Every four years, Council updates its Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP), a key document that guides how we balance responsible pet ownership with the wellbeing and safety of our community.

The 2025–2029 Plan is now in development, and Council has launched a community survey to capture feedback from residents, pet owners, domestic animal businesses, and regular users of public spaces such as Lake Hamilton, the Hamilton Dog Park and the Grange Burn walking track.

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin urged anyone with pets, animal businesses or an interest in pet ownership to complete the survey, saying:

“This plan is a key document that sets the tone for how our Local Laws team approaches their work. It recognises that education and community engagement are just as vital as the enforcement work they do in the region. Our Rangers do a fantastic job balancing both, and community feedback is vital in ensuring the plan reflects local needs.”

The updated Plan will set out strategies to support responsible cat and dog ownership, reduce the risk of dog attacks, minimise nuisance behaviours, and address issues such as over-population. It will also encourage pet registration and identification while ensuring Council’s authorised officers have the training and tools they need to continue delivering effective animal management services.

The Domestic Animal Management Plan also ensures that Council is performing its duty under the Domestic Animals Act 1994.

Council is inviting all residents, businesses and stakeholders to share their views and help create a plan that reflects how people in the Shire live with and care for pets.

To have your say, please complete the survey and for more information, check out our website.

-Ends-