Register dogs now to avoid late fees

Dog owners wanting to avoid late fees have until the end of August to register their pooches.

All dogs are required to be registered annually with the Council, with the fee going towards maintaining its animal management services.

This includes things like animal control patrols and shelter operations, responding to

complaints, free microchipping initiatives, and education programmes in the community.

"More than 80 percent of dog owners have already registered their dogs, which is fantastic," Animal Services Manager Lionel Bridger says.

"Reminder notices and text messages have been sent to owners, which has generated a tremendous response, and Council are still working through the responses so please be assured if you have contacted us prior to 31 August, late penalties and the loss of Responsible Dog Owner status will NOT be applied." 

 Mr Bridger said penalty fees will apply from 1 September 2026 for dog owners who have not renewed their registrations.

“Registering dogs is also important because it helps reunite lost dogs with their families as quickly as possible," he said. 

Fees can be paid online or at any Council Service Centre.