Domestic pets are a much-loved part of many households across Benalla Rural City. To ensure animals are well cared for and the community continues to enjoy safe and responsible pet ownership, Council has prepared the draft Benalla Rural City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029, now available for community feedback.
The draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 sets out how Council will manage cats and dogs across the municipality over the next four years. It includes strategies to promote responsible pet ownership, balance the needs of pet owners with those of the wider community, reduce the incidence of dog attacks, and address issues such as nuisance animals and cat containment.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 is an important step in ensuring the community continues to benefit from the many positive aspects of pet ownership while also addressing the challenges that can arise.
“Pets are an important part of family life, but we also know they come with responsibilities,” Cr Hearn said.
“The draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 recognises the need to support both pet owners and the wider community by ensuring clear guidelines and fair management practices are in place.”
Cr Hearn encouraged the community to take part in the consultation process.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible, whether you are a pet owner, or someone with ideas about how we can improve the way animals are managed in Benalla Rural City,” she added.
A copy of the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 can be downloaded from www.haveyoursay.benalla.vic.gov.au. It can also be viewed at or obtained from Council’s Customer Service Centre, 1 Bridge Street, Benalla, between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday.
Any person who wishes to make a submission on the draft Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026–2029 can do so by completing the online submission form, sending a written submission to Benalla Rural City Council, PO Box 227, Benalla VIC 3672, or emailing it to council@benalla.vic.gov.au
Submissions close at 5pm on Wednesday 1 October 2025.