As part of the Victoria's Domestic Animals Act 1994, every four years Darebin City Council reviews its Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP).

The Plan outlines how the City will manage domestic animals like dogs and cats. It includes a range of solutions and supports for the management of domestic animals. It directs how Council invests its time and resources to the safety and wellbeing of the wider community.

The new DAMP 2026-29 will be implemented in partnership with Whittlesea and Merri-bek Councils and a range of key partners in the community. We aim to finalise and submit the DAMP 2026-29 to Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), early 2026.

Have your say on the draft

new Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-2029.

What can your feedback influence?

Any gaps or needs omitted from the draft DAMP

  1. Objectives of the Plan (these are legislated requirements supported by the Domestic Animals Act (1994).
  2. Legislated processes and enforcement actions.
  3. The new DAMP is consistent with other internal documents (existing orders made under this Act and Local Law).

Engagement Summary

Community Engagement Summary

This is a summary of the key highlights from the community engagement during stage one of the project.

  • 879 online surveys were completed

  • 1136 responses to the online quick poll - more than half of respondents (55%) adopted their pet from a shelter


  • 125 participants in 11 stakeholder interviews and 8 pop ups

  • mandatory desexing of cats and strengthening of cat curfew (to 24 hours) received strong support

  • more Council presence in parks and open spaces to help owners keep their dogs on their best behaviour

Read the Community Engagement Round 1 Summary Report

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