The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is in the process of developing tougher penalties for irresponsible dog owners.
The Animal Management Taskforce, Chaired by the Department’s Minister, Mark Furner, met Mayors and Councillors, representatives of RSPCA Queensland and the Local Government Association of Queensland.
Mr Furner said the Government was committed to reforming the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2008, with a view to progressing reforms.
He said these included increases in penalties for the most serious dog attack offences, including imprisonment as an option; a ban on restricted dog breeds; development of a community education program and fast-tracking of decisions and appeals on the future of seized dangerous animals.
“There should also be continued assessment of further tough reforms through the Taskforce and technical working group process,” Mr Furner said.
“As a Government, we have publicly affirmed the way forward when it comes to dealing with dangerous dogs with the help of the Taskforce.”
He thanked members of the taskforce for their valuable input.
“The Government wants to support Councils to enforce animal management practices with strong legislation, which will be informed by public consultation on a discussion paper,” the Minister said.
“I look forward further consultation with the community, and I’ll be encouraging everyone to have their say on the proposed reforms.”
