Help shape a pet-friendly future for all
Published on 14 August 2025
Frankston City Council is inviting community feedback on its newly developed, draft Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) – which is a four-year roadmap for how cats and dogs will be cared for, managed and supported across the city.
Every four years, councils are required by law to review and update their DAMP, ensuring local laws and services meet community needs and align with the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
This draft plan reflects what Council has consistently heard from the community – including a strong desire to see safer spaces for pets, clearer rules in public places and better protection for our local wildlife.
Council also receives thousands of animal-related service requests each year – more than 2,700 in 2024–2025 alone. This feedback has helped shape the priorities and actions outlined in the draft plan.
Frankston City Councillor Cherie Wanat said: “As a proud pet owner myself, I know how much our furry companions mean to families right across Frankston. Pets bring joy, love and connection – and this plan is about making sure they live long, safe and happy lives.”
“Your feedback will help us develop a strategically balanced document that will promote responsible pet ownership, improve animal welfare and protect our community and natural environment.”
Key proposals include:
- A new Dogs in Public Places Policy, to provide a consistent approach to how off-leash and dog-prohibited areas are assessed, designed and managed – helping ensure our parks and public places are safe, welcoming and well-balanced for all users.
- A 24-hour cat curfew, replacing the current sunset-to-sunrise rule. The aim is to protect both cats and native wildlife, with a staged rollout that includes an amnesty period, education and support such as access to cat enclosures.
“With more than 23,500 registered pets in our city – and countless residents who care deeply about animals and nature – this plan is about getting the balance right,” Cr Wanat said.
“We want to support responsible owners, encourage kindness and care and make sure our public spaces work for everyone – whether you walk on two legs or four.”
Community members are encouraged to visit Engage Frankston to read the draft plan and complete a short survey. Consultation is open until Sunday 7 September 2025.
Council has also launched a photo competition as part of the engagement. Residents can upload a snap showing how they’re a responsible pet owner or animal or environment lover – for the chance to win one-of-four $100 Prezzee vouchers.
To have your say and to enter the competition, visit: engage.frankston.vic.gov.au/DAMP2025