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FACT SHEET
Dog Control Amendment Bill 2009
The Bill imposes tighter controls on dangerous dogs and introduces restrictions on
breeds such as pit bull terriers.
The new controls include:
· a new classification of `restricted breed' dog with stronger control requirements
· mandatory de-sexing of dangerous and restricted breed dogs
· restrictions on selling and exchanging dangerous and restricted breed dogs
· compulsory micro-chipping of dogs, with limited exemptions
· a new noise abatement notice and infringement process to tackle problem
barking dogs
· stronger provisions for councils to seize and detain dogs.
Restricted breed dogs are those breeds that have been banned from entry into
Australia but does not include cross-breeds. Animal management officers will
determine whether a dog is a restricted breed dog on the basis of approved
guidelines which will include key characteristics of dog breeds such the height,
weight, coat, colouration, tail carriage, and facial and body features.
The legislation will require all dangerous dogs to be housed in enclosures that will
have to meet minimum standards and be childproof.
The proliferation of dangerous and restricted breed dogs will be controlled by
requiring these dogs to be de-sexed.
A computerised database, which will form the basis of the compulsory micro-
chipping system, will be established by regulation.
The legislation was developed through a process of broad consultation including
release of an issues paper on which submissions were invited.
Key stakeholder groups including the Local Government Association of Tasmania,
RSPCA, Australian Veterinary Association, Animal Management Officers Association
of Tasmania, Royal Guide Dogs and other interest groups were consulted during
development of the legislation.