New rules are putting cats in one Central Victorian council under an all-day curfew.
The 24-hour containment policy was officially approved in Mount Alexander Shire at a council meeting held last week.
Speaking with Robbo on the Wake Up Call, Shire CEO Darren Fuzzard said there had been “strong support” for the policy within the community.
“During the debate [at the meeting] many of the councillors spoke about the responsibility to protect native wildlife, animal welfare, neighbourhood amenities and the environment,” Mr Fuzzard said.
“But also, the containment – that keeps cats safer as well and reduces the risk that they’re going to get hit by cars or suffer other injuries, or even take poisons or get disease…”
The rule requires pet owners to ensure their cats remain on their property at all times, and can only leave the premises if they are “appropriately restrained” – meaning kept on a lead or in a secure carrier.
Cats are still allowed outdoors within their owner’s property, provided they are unable to roam beyond its boundaries.
Mr Fuzzard acknowledged the change was “not straightforward” and for that reason, the Shire has committed to a six-month “education and transition period” which will begin at an as-yet unconfirmed date.
Mount Alexander is not the first council in the region to adopt a 24-hour cat curfew.
A similar policy has been enforced within the City of Greater Bendigo since July 2024, which also requires pet cats to stay within their owner’s property.
More information can be found on Mount Alexander Shire’s website.
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