Frankston City Council is calling on residents to help shape a new, four-year strategy for managing cats and dogs across the municipality.
The draft Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) 2025–2029 outlines how the city will care for, manage, and support pets, while balancing community needs and protecting local wildlife. Under Victorian law, councils must review and update their DAMP every four years to ensure compliance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
Council says the draft plan reflects community feedback gathered over recent years, which highlighted a strong desire for safer spaces for pets, clearer public rules, and better wildlife protection. In 2024–2025 alone, more than 2,700 animal-related service requests were received, informing the priorities in the proposed plan.
Cr Cherie Wanat said responsible pet ownership was at the heart of the strategy.
“As a proud pet owner myself, I know how much our furry companions mean to families right across Frankston,” she said.
“This plan is about making sure they live long, safe and happy lives, while supporting owners and protecting our community and environment.”
Key proposals include:
- Dogs in Public Places Policy – introducing a consistent approach to assessing, designing and managing off-leash and dog-prohibited areas, aiming to make parks and public spaces safe and welcoming for all.
- 24-hour cat curfew – replacing the current sunset-to-sunrise rule, with a staged rollout, education campaign, amnesty period and support measures such as access to cat enclosures.
With more than 23,500 registered pets in the city, Council says the plan aims to “get the balance right” between supporting pet owners, protecting wildlife and ensuring public spaces work for everyone.
Community consultation is open until Sunday 7 September 2025. Residents can review the draft plan and complete a short survey via Engage Frankston.
As part of the engagement process, a photo competition is also running. Locals can submit images showing how they’re a responsible pet owner or an animal/nature lover for the chance to win one of four $100 Prezzee vouchers.
