Published on Friday, 11 October 2024 at 1:46:56 PM

The Shire of Dardanup has reiterated its commitment to strengthening local cat laws, submitting a joint proposal in collaboration with the Shire of Esperance, at the WA Local Government Association’s (WALGA) annual general meeting in Perth yesterday.

Shire of Dardanup President Cr Gardiner said the submission secured 87% support of the 220 votes received, which calls for changes to the Cat Act 2011 to allow local governments more control over wandering cats.

The existing Cat Act 2011 currently limits local governments from creating specific local laws to address the issue.

Cr Gardiner said both Shires agreed that this limitation hinders their ability to effectively manage the impacts of unrestrained cats on local wildlife and community well-being.

"Today’s outcome is a positive move in the right direction. It highlights the growing recognition among local governments of the need for stronger local cat laws that empower communities to address the unique challenges posed by wandering cats,” Cr Gardiner said.

"The current laws restrict our ability to create regulations that effectively manage cat behaviour and protect our local environment.

“We’re hopeful that this collaboration with WALGA will lead to meaningful changes that benefit both our community and our wildlife."

Cr Gardiner also noted key discussions from the conference, including an acknowledgment by Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Hannah Beazley, that recent changes in the interpretation of some aspects of the Cat Act 2011 have caused issues for local governments.

“This includes councils like ours that aim to introduce laws allowing for greater control over wandering and nuisance cats,” Cr Gardiner said.

"The passing of the Dardanup and Esperance resolution underscores how important these requested changes to the Cat Act are to the local government sector.

"It sends a clear message to State Parliamentarians that this issue is a priority at our level of government.

"Another vital part of the resolution is the call for WALGA to develop a model local cat law with effective control provisions, which local governments can adopt once the necessary adjustments to the State Cat Act have been made."

Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Communications Officer | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.

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