Just what are my registration fees used for?

Did you know dog registration is a State Government requirement?

Lockyer Valley Regional Council’s Local Laws Portfolio Councillor, Cheryl Steinhardt said while registration is a legal requirement, it also served as a vital step in keeping your dog, your family and the wider community safe.

“In Queensland, it is a requirement for all dogs to be registered annually under the Animal Management Act 2008.

“Dog registration has many benefits for pet owners and the community at large and is part of responsible pet ownership.

“Animal management services provide a range of benefits to our community, including our off-leash dog areas and providing staff to deal with animal behaviour and welfare issues.

“The money collected from dog registrations helps us reunite lost dogs with their owners, resolve barking issues, undertake patrols, identify dogs involved in attacks, fund education campaigns and so much more.

“Ensuring your dog is registered and microchipped makes it easier for Council officers to reunite lost pets with their owner, which works to reduce the number of animals that end up at the pound.

“The money collected from dog registrations is only a fraction of what it costs for Council to reunite lost dogs with their owners, attend to complaints and manage education campaigns,” she said.

At the January Council Meeting, Council resolved to commence a property-by-property inspection program, which is expected to begin shortly.

“This is another reason we’re encouraging residents to deal with their registrations sooner rather than later, when financial penalties are likely to apply.

“It is also important for residents to know they must inform Council of any changes to their dog registration notice, including a change of address, or if their dog is regulated as a dangerous dog – it is an offence not to comply,” Cr Steinhardt said.

All dogs older than 12 weeks of age must be registered by law, with fines of up to $322 per dog payable if you’re found in breach.

Annual registration fees are $148 for an entire dog and $50 for most desexed dogs (less for desexed dogs for approved pensioners), while puppies under six months of age are $45 or free if they are desexed.

If you’re yet to register your dog, we urge you to contact us on 1300 005 872 to ensure our dedicated animal management team can continue this important work.