GOONDIWINDI Regional Council has installed new signs at popular dog-walking spots in the Goondiwindi region to remind local dog owners stricter penalties for wandering dogs now apply following Queensland Government law changes introduced in 2024.
These include a new on-the-spot fine of $806 for anyone not keeping a dog under control when in a public place.
Anyone walking a dog without a leash in a public place – excluding the Botanical Gardens off-leash area – could face a hefty fine.
The penalty therefore applies to any wandering dogs collected by Council.
Deputy mayor Rob Mackenzie holds Council’s portfolio for Regulatory Services and said while the state law changes are not a Council decision, Council is required to implement them locally.
He said the best way to avoid fines is to register and microchip dogs – and always keep them on a lead in public.
“By registering and microchipping your dog, we can quickly contact you and return your pet for free for the first time if it is found wandering,” Cr Mackenzie said.
“In fact, we were able to return 29 dogs to their owners in 2024 without penalty under our free release incentive for registered animals.
“Hopefully, these new signs will help remind dog owners to ensure their animals are always on a leash and under control in public spaces to avoid these penalties – even if people think their dog is well-behaved off the lead,” he said.
“Council gets frequent reports from residents – especially our more vulnerable or elderly community members – who have been rushed at or frightened by off-lead dogs.
“Or from those with reactive dogs who are doing the right thing and keeping them on a lead – only to be approached by an off-leash dog who’s not responding to its owner.
“Under the new state laws, that would attract a fine,” he said.
“At the end of the day, most responsible pet owners already ensure their animals are well cared for and securely contained.
“These new laws are designed to encourage others to do the same and to protect the safety of our community.”
The law changes come as part of a suite of 2024 state government amendments to encourage better animal management practices.
The most significant change is the introduction of a fine of up to $112,910 and possible jail time for serious or fatal dog attacks.
In Queensland, all town dogs must be registered with the local council before they are 12 weeks old. The registration period is from January 1 to December 31 each year.
For more information about registering dogs, visit: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/Residents/Animals/Registration
For more information about the new Queensland Government changes to dog ownership laws, visit: https://www.qld.gov.au/families/government/pets/pet-laws#changes
