New dog laws bite back at irresponsible owners

Fraser Coast dog owners are being urged to keep their animals under control to ensure community safety and avoid being caught by the Queensland Government’s tough new dangerous dog laws.

Fraser Coast Deputy Mayor Paul Truscott said the updated animal management laws meant irresponsible owners of dogs that attack and cause serious injury or death can now face jail terms of up to three years and fines up to $108,000.

“Pet ownership provides a lot of enjoyment, but it is also a long-term commitment and comes with responsibility for the pet, to the community and the environment,” he said.

“Responsible dog ownership is crucial for the safety and well-being of our community and dog owners must maintain proper control of their pets at all times to keep themselves, their pets, other members of the community and other animals safe.”

Cr Truscott said the maximum fine for failing to take reasonable steps to ensure a dog does not attack had doubled to more than $92,000 as part of the changes to the Queensland Government laws.

“Five dog breeds, including Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, American pit bull terrier or pit bull terrier, and the Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario, have also been banned from 28 August 2024,” he said.

"Despite the significant changes showing less tolerance for inappropriate behaviour by dogs and owners, the toughest penalties will only impact a few dog owners."

The changes come after a year-long review of the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2008 and the recommendations of a task force that included the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, several local governments, the Local Government Association of Queensland, and RSPCA Queensland.

The changes will be supported with a $7.57 million Queensland Government funding package, which will provide more coordinated, consistent, and effective government action in response to dog attacks, and support dog management initiatives in First Nations communities. 

The funding will also include a community education and awareness campaign rolled out over three years to build responsible dog ownership, prevent dog attacks, and reduce the risk of harm from dog attacks.

For more information about responsible pet ownership and the services provided by the Fraser Coast Council, please visit https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/animals-and-pets