Tighter dog laws proposed for WA

• Strong community demand for action on dangerous dogs
• State Government addresses important amendments to the Dog Act 1976

West Australians will have greater protection relating to dangerous dogs, following the introduction into State Parliament of the Dog Amendment Bill 2012.

Local Government Minister John Castrilli said amendments would also enable local governments to more effectively deal with nuisance dog behaviour.

The Bill introduces amendments in the following key areas:

• Improving community safety through increased controls over dangerous dogs (including restricted breeds), and higher penalties encouraging more responsible dog ownership
• Enabling nuisance dogs, including nuisance barking dogs, to be more effectively dealt with.  These amendments will improve the ability for councils to take action when someone is affected by barking and other nuisances
• Recognition of assistance dogs as an extension of the guide dog provisions.  This amendment extends guide dog provisions to dogs used by any person with a disability, for example hearing dogs
• Meeting changing community expectations, which includes compulsory micro chipping and extending impounding time from three to seven days for dogs where owners can be identified

The Minister said recent incidents, particularly those involving children, have understandably fuelled community concerns about dogs and the few irresponsible owners.

"There is widespread and extensive support for the proposed amendments and this Bill will enhance responsible dog ownership and increase community safety," Mr Castrilli said

      Fact File

• Copy of Bill and Explanatory Memorandum available at http://www.dlg.wa.gov.au in 'Legislative Under Review' section
• Parliamentary consideration of amendments commence from September 11, 2012

Minister's office - 6552 6600