Part 5A Domestic Animal Management Plans

Maroondah City Council

Domestic Animal Management Plan

2013-2017

Review

Table of Contents Page

1. Introduction 3 2. Maroondah City Profile 4 3. Training of Authorised Officers 7 4. Registration and Identification 12 4.1 Complaints 15 4.2 Our Current Education/Promotion Activities 19 5. Nuisance 21 6. Dog Attacks 24 7. Dangerous, Menacing and Restricted Breed Dogs 27 8. Overpopulation and High Euthanasia 28 9. Domestic Animal Businesses 30 10. Other Matters 32 11. Annual Review of Plan and Annual Reporting 33 12. Appendices 34 A: Extract of Section 68A of the (Domestic Animals Act) 1994 34 B: Copy of Order Pursuant to Section 26 (2) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 35 C: Copy of Maroondah Municipal Emergency Management Animal Welfare Plan 39

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 2 1. Introduction

The Domestic Animals Act 1994 (The Act) establishes a legislative requirement on Local Government to prepare, implement and annually report on its Domestic Animal Management Plan (The Plan).

The primary purpose of a Domestic Animal Management Plan is to detail the requirements for dog and cat management within a municipality. Maroondah’s Plan recognises dogs and cats have an impact on the health, wellbeing and lives of the whole community and was developed within the context of seeking to apply best practice in animal management while recognising the socio-economic environment within the municipality. It contains a range of actions to be undertaken by Council and the community, including:

• Managing domestic animals in accordance with Local Government Statutory responsibilities under Section 68A of The Act. • Establishing priorities for domestic animal management for the next four years. • Promoting and facilitating responsible pet ownership of dogs and cats, animal welfare and the benefits of pet ownership. • Investigating the best mix of regulatory and educational approaches to achieving responsible pet ownership in Maroondah. • Advising the community on how to responsibly manage domestic animals in compliance with regulation and community values.

Maroondah City Council’s Domestic Animal Management Plan is a plan for a proactive approach to animal management and provides a sound basis and direction for Council to make future decisions.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 3 2. Maroondah City Profile

Our City Our location

The City of Maroondah covers a land area of 61.4 square kilometres in Melbourne’s outer east, 22 kilometres from the Central Business District (CBD). The area is a substantially developed peri-urban residential municipality, with an estimated population of 112,310 residents and 43,663 households with an average of 2.55 people per household. The City of Maroondah includes the suburbs of Bayswater North, Croydon, Croydon Hills, Croydon North, Croydon South, Heathmont, Kilsyth South, Ringwood, Ringwood East, Ringwood North and Warranwood. The City also includes small sections of Kilsyth, Park Orchards, Vermont and Wonga Park. With little remaining land available for greenfield residential development, future population growth will be mainly stimulated by housing consolidation and medium density development. Maroondah has the strategic advantage of being located at the north-eastern junction of the Eastern Freeway - EastLink corridor. There are two train lines and a large number of bus routes linking the City with other regions. Our sustainable transport links continue to expand, with on-road cycling paths and shared paths on major trails, including the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail, the EastLink Trail, Taralla Creek Trail and the Dandenong Creek Trail.

Our residents

Maroondah has an estimated population of 112,310 residents and 43,663 households with a similar age structure to the State’s average. Compared with metropolitan Melbourne, Maroondah has a slightly higher proportion of residents aged between 45 to 69 years and a lower proportion of residents aged between 20 to 35 years. Cultural diversity in Maroondah is increasing, with the highest numbers of recent overseas immigrants arriving from Burma, China, Malaysia, India, Thailand and Iran. Maroondah is now home to the largest Burmese community in Melbourne’s eastern region. There is a strong sense of community participation within Maroondah embodied by a large number of committed volunteers. More than two thirds of parents in Maroondah are actively involved in their local schools and one third of Maroondah’s residents are members of organised community groups.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 4 Our history The first settlers to the area prior to European colonisation were the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation approximately 40,000 years ago. The territory of the Wurundjeri lies within the inner city of Melbourne and extends north to the Great Dividing Ranges, east to Mt Baw Baw, south to Mordialloc Creek and west to Werribee River.

European settlers arrived in the 1830’s and commenced using the land for grazing cattle. The original Ringwood village emerged in the mid to late 19th century, following the initial sale of land and the local proliferation of grazing, fruit growing, antimony mining and brick making activities.

The first constructed road through the area led to Mount Dandenong and was known as Sawmill Road, then Oxford Road, then finally given its current name of Mount Dandenong Road. The area became better known when used by bullock teams heading for the gold fields in Woods Point and the Great Dividing Range.

The railway line from Melbourne commenced its eastward development in 1861 extending to Lilydale through Ringwood and Croydon in December 1882. This resulted in a consolidation of township facilities, including the provision of local churches, banks and schools to accommodate a growing population. The line to Ferntree Gully followed soon afterwards.

The proclamation in 1924 of the Borough of Ringwood coincided with the electrification of the railway line, encouraging township development and subdivision. Electric trains were in service between Ringwood and Croydon in 1924 and were extended to Lilydale in 1925.

During its early days, Croydon was part of the Shire of Lillydale’s South-West Riding. Unlike some neighbouring towns, it had not been planned and proclaimed a town by the Department of Crown Lands and Survey, but resulted from the private subdivision of crown land in the Parishes of Warrandyte, Mooroolbark and Ringwood. Severance of Croydon from Lillydale Shire was requested in 1957 since it was the most densely populated part of the Shire. The Shire of Croydon was declared in 1961.

Considerable suburban expansion during the post-war period gave rise to the declaration of the City of Ringwood in 1960 and formal recognition as part of the broader metropolitan region. Eastland was established in 1967 as a major 'new format' retail centre. In 1971, the City of Croydon was declared, reflecting increased residential development and population growth in this area.

Maroondah City Council was formed on 15 December 1994 by the amalgamation of the former Cities of Croydon and Ringwood, and parts of the former Shire of Lillydale and the former City of Doncaster and Templestowe. The term ‘Maroondah’ is named after an aboriginal word meaning ’leaf’ which symbolises the green environment of the city.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 5 Our economy

Over 9,000 businesses operate within the City with small business comprising over 96 percent of these organisations. The majority of businesses are in the construction, property and business services, finance and insurance, retail trade and manufacturing sectors. The largest industry employers are the manufacturing, retail trade and health care sectors. In total, businesses in Maroondah provide employment for 44,935 people and the municipality has a gross regional product (GRP) of $4.51 billion. Maroondah has two major retail centres at Croydon and Ringwood, with Ringwood being one of the largest in Melbourne. In addition, a range of key service and retail precincts are clustered along the Maroondah Highway corridor and 21 neighbourhood shopping centres are spread throughout the municipality. Maroondah is well positioned to take advantage of Victoria’s future growth. Ringwood is identified as a Metropolitan Activity Centre within Plan Melbourne, a State Government blueprint for the future, which was released in 2013. Croydon is also a key activity centre with concentrated retail opportunities and medium density housing development continuing to strengthen its thriving town centre.

The Bayswater North Employment Precinct is a major industrial and economic hub where many national and international firms have established their headquarters. The area offers diverse and flexible business accommodation with strategic access to EastLink, the Eastern Freeway and other major arterial roads.

Maroondah’s current combined total registered cats and dogs is 17,052. Total number of registered dogs is 12,379 and total number of registered cats is 4,673. Since the last DAMP period of 2013 – 2017 there has been a consistent level of total registered cats and dogs.

Our environment

Maroondah has 42 bushland reserves that offer residents and visitors the enjoyment of wildflowers, wildlife, bush walks and wetlands. There are more than 750,000 trees (mostly native species) in parks and reserves providing shade and shelter, helping to control water runoff, evaporation and erosion and providing a home for wildlife. During 2015/16, Council planted over 3,000 additional street trees and over 20,000 trees and plants in parks and reserves in conjunction with Friends Groups. There are many areas of recreational open space in Maroondah. The City has 420 parks and reserves with 48 sports ovals. Open space areas include two golf courses, 128 public playgrounds, three skate areas, and two exercise trails. Maroondah’s residents and businesses are great recyclers: over 24,260 tonnes of recycling and green waste diverted from landfill in 2015/16. Maroondah has one of the highest diversion rates amongst Victoria’s 79 Councils.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 6 3. Training of Authorised Officers

Council’s Local Laws service area currently has three (3) Authorised Officers (Rangers/Animal Management staff). Other Authorised Officers within the Local Laws team are cross trained and can assist the Animal Management Officers when required. All of these Authorised Officers are included in the table below. There are a total of 13 Authorised Officers within the Local Laws service area.

Current and Planned Training

Current as of Authorised Officer Training Planned 2016

Certificate IV in Animal Control and Regulation Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes Officer 7 Yes Officer 10 Yes Certificate IV in Animal Welfare Unit RUV4203A Identify & Respond to Animal Behavior Officer 3 Yes Officer 4 Yes Officer 5 Yes Officer 6 Yes Officer 9 Yes Officer 10 Yes Animal Handling Behavior and Animal Assessment Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes Officer 3 Yes Officer 4 Yes Officer 7 Yes Statement taking Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes Officer 3 Yes Officer 5 Yes Officer 6 Yes Officer 9 Yes

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 7 Current as of Planned Authorised Officer Training 2016

Prosecution Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes Officer 3 Yes Officer 7 Yes Officer 9 Yes K9 Self Preservation and Harm Reduction Strategies Yes Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes Officer 3 Yes Officer 4 Yes Officer 5 Yes Officer 6 Yes Officer 9 Yes Officer 10 Yes Officer 11 Yes Officer 12 Yes Officer 13 Yes OH&S training – dealing with aggressive customers Officer 1 Yes July 2017 and Officer 2 Yes annually Officer 3 Yes Officer 4 Yes Officer 5 Yes Officer 6 Yes Officer 7 Yes Officer 8 Yes Officer 9 Yes Officer 10 Yes Officer 11 Yes Officer 12 Yes Officer 13 Yes

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 8 Current as Planned Authorised Officer Training of 2016

Customer service training – conflict resolution Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes Officer 3 Yes Officer 4 Yes Officer 5 Yes Officer 6 Yes Officer 7 Yes Officer 8 Yes Officer 9 Yes Officer 10 Yes Officer 11 Yes Officer 12 Yes Officer 13 Yes Induction program for new staff Officer 8 Yes Officer 12 Yes Certificate IV in Local Government Officer 2 Yes Officer 4 Yes Officer 6 Yes Officer 7 Yes Officer 13 Yes Canine Anatomy and Identification Training Officer 1 Yes Officer 12 Yes Customer service training – public speaking Officer 1 Yes Officer 3 Yes Officer 6 Yes Officer 7 Yes Municipal Association of Victoria and Local Government Professionals – training and information days Officers attend as required on a bi-yearly basis Yes Ongoing

Australian Institute of Animal Management annual conference Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes 2017 Officer 3 Yes

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 9 Current as Planned Authorised Officer Training of 2016 Large Animal Emergency Rescue Awareness Yes Officer 1 Yes Officer 12 Maddocks – The Exceptional Investigator Series Officer 1 Yes Officer 2 Yes 2017 Officer 3 Yes

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 10 OUR PLANS

Objective 1 Develop a training plan that clearly identifies minimum training requirements and any additional training needs that should be undertaken by Authorised Officers.

Activity When Evaluation

Identify minimum training Yearly Plan to be reviewed yearly as requirements by consultation with working environment changes. management and staff Include in staff annual performance review plan.

Identify additional training Yearly as Evaluate on an as need basis and opportunities by consultation with required Include in staff annual performance management and staff review plan.

Objective 2 Develop and maintain a training register for individual officers detailing completed and proposed training.

Liaise with HR area in Council to Ongoing Yearly basis liaise with HR to maintain current training register ensure register is maintained and updated for future training needs for Officers.

Objective 3 Ensure all Authorised Officers have completed their minimum training requirements within 6 months of appointment.

Identify minimum training As required Liaise with HR to program the requirements for officers for new staff minimum training within 6 months (linked with Objective 1) of commencement of employment for new staff.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 11 4. Registration and Identification

Current Situation

NEW ANIMAL REGISTRATION RENEWAL FEES - 2016/2017

DOGS FULL FEE PENSION CONCESSION FEE

Desexed & Microchipped $42.00 $21.00

Entire (Undesexed) $126.00 $63.00

Dangerous/Restricted $200.00 FULL FEE ONLY Breed

Menacing Dog $200.00 FULL FEE ONLY

Pre 2007

Desexed only (no $42.00 $21.00 microchip)

CATS FULL FEE PENSION CONCESSION FEE

Pre 2007

Desexed only (no $33.00 $16.50 microchip)

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 12 CURRENT ANIMAL REGISTRATION FEES 2016/2017

DOGS FULL FEE PENSION CONCESSION FEE

Entire (Undesexed & $126.00 $63.00 Microchipped)

Dangerous/Restricted Breed $200.00 FULL FEE ONLY

Menacing Dog $200.00 FULL FEE ONLY

CATS FULL FEE PENSION CONCESSION FEE

Desexed (Microchipped) $33.00 $16.50

Entire (Undesexed & $99.00 $49.50 Microchipped)

Total Animals Registered 2015/16 17052 Total Dogs 12379 Total Cats 4673 Desexed Dogs 11084 Desexed Cats 4444 Microchipped Dogs 10389 Microchipped Cats 4452 Pensioner Concession Dogs 2823 Pensioner Concession Cats 1165 Total Male Dogs 6165 Total Male Cats 2069 Total Female Dogs 5988 Total Female Cats 2458 Total Unknown gender Dogs 43 Total Unknown gender Cats 89

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 13 Location

Suburb Dogs Cats Bayswater North 1073 443 Croydon 2782 1057 Croydon Hills 671 216 Croydon North 954 362 Croydon South 619 215 Heathmont 1086 451 Kilsyth 220 71 Kilsyth South 464 136 Park Orchards 5 2 Ringwood 1462 612 Ringwood East 1024 473 Ringwood North 1091 377 Vermont 40 12 Warranwood 664 185 Wonga Park 41 4

Animal Ages Age Number Age Number Age Number 0 460 8 1363 16 148 1 1153 9 1243 17 74 2 1214 10 1190 18 39 3 1221 11 1004 19 19 4 1352 12 761 20 12 5 1393 13 679 21 14 6 1392 14 432 22 10 7 1360 15 274 23 3

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 14 4.1 Complaints Complaints 01/07/2015 – 30/06/2016

DOG COMPLAINTS Barking Dogs 200 Dog At Large (Contained) 561 Dog At Large (Wandering) 141 Dog - Attack 61 Dog – Menacing 29 Dog – Additional Dogs 29 Dog General – Requiring 247 Action New Animal Notification 1896

CAT COMPLAINTS Cat – Additional Cats 7 Cat General – Requiring 145 Action Cat Cage Requests 143 New Cat Notification 888

OTHER ANIMAL COMPLAINTS Birds 27 Livestock 16 Pet Shop 2

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 15 Infringements issued (On Street Suburb) 01/07/2015 – 30/06/2016 ANIMAL INFRINGEMENTS Bayswater North 42 Croydon 136 Croydon Hills 7 Croydon North 46 Croydon South 28 Heathmont 51 Kilsyth 6 Kilsyth South 2 Ringwood 59 Ringwood East 31 Ringwood North 69 Vermont 0 Warranwood 14 Wonga Park 0 Total number 491

Infringements issued (by Infringement type) 01/07/2015 – 30/06/2016 ANIMAL INFRINGEMENTS Animal on private property after notice served 0 Dog at large – daytime hours 247 Dog at large – night time hours 24 Dog or cat being a nuisance 0 Dog or cat creating a nuisance 0 Dog/Cat found in prohibited public place 0 Dog/Cat not registered 163 Failure to Renew Dog/Cat registration 14 Non serious injury caused by dog attack 13 Rushing/Chasing dog 7 Non Muzzling or Controlling Menacing Dog 4 Non complying with nuisance abatement 0 Registered animal not wearing Council ID 19 Total number 491

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 16 If a property has more than two animals registered the Council database flags when more than two dogs or cats are being registered to any property Authorised Officers then action required permit applications. Council’s Local Law allows for a resident to apply for a permit to keep more than the prescribed number of animals under certain conditions.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 17 Our Orders, Local Laws, Council Policies and Procedures

LOCAL LAWS 11

SECTION 40 - LIMITS ON NUMBER OF ANIMALS KEPT An Owner or Occupier of any land, the area of which is less than or equal to five thousand (5,000) square metres (half {0.5} a hectare), must not, without a Permit, keep or allow to be kept more than four (4) different types of Animals on any one (1) parcel of land at any time and must not keep or allow to be kept any more in number for each type of animal than is set out in the following table:

Type of Animal Number Dogs Two (2) Cats Two (2) Rooster None Domestic Birds Twenty (20) Large Birds None Poultry (not including Rooster) Five (5) Pigeons Twenty (20) Ferrets, Guinea Pigs, Rabbits or Rodents Five (5) Horse/Donkeys or similar None Cattle None Sheep, Alpacas, Llamas or similar None Goats None Pigs None Any other agricultural Animals None

PENALTY: MAXIMUM TWENTY (20) PENALTY UNITS

Council Policies and Procedures: Council current policies and procedures are to follow the relevant legislation stated in the Domestic Animal Act regarding cats and dogs. Council’s Local Laws compliment the Domestic Animal Act.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 18 4.2 Our Current Education/Promotion Activities * Responsible Pet Ownership in Maroondah brochures – located at various organisations including vets and pet stores. * Brochures are included in new resident kits – mailed out when residents move in to a new premise to either rent or buy. * Information is provided to people at the Maroondah festival – annual city festival which has various organisations promoting responsible pet ownership, including council staff. * Information flyer with registration renewals provided in the mail. * 'Picnic in the Park' – Relevant stakeholders have various stalls for an open day for dogs, providing free microchipping, promoting educational material and activities, displays and activities by different organisations. * Media Releases on topical issues. * New animal registrations - animals under the age of 6 months of age receive a reduced rate for registration as an incentive to desex their pet. * Vouchers for residents to assist desexing of cats and dogs are available for residents with current concessions cards. * Nominated “off leash” parks in council order (refer Appendix B for current order, nominating parks which are off leash). * Community consultation to implement Dog Parks in Maroondah.

Our Current Compliance Activities

 Programmed and Random Park Patrols – Rangers and other Authorised Officers conduct foot patrols throughout (Council order for off leash parks).  Mail out of renewal notices to current registered dogs and cats.  Follow up of renewal notices – reminder letter, phone calls to animal owners and Authorised Officer’s site visit.  Advising the community on animal management matters through various media releases.  Community education including implementing the Responsible Pet Owner program.  Inspection of registered domestic animal businesses, dangerous and restricted dog breed premises for legislative compliance.  Maintaining an animal register.  Management and prosecution of animal offences.  Provision of an animal after-hours response service.  Response and administration to customer requests and complaints.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 19 Summary

Statistics has collated since the introduction of the first Animal Management Plan 2008-2011 will assist in indentifying emerging trends at the end of the plan period 2013-2017. Current education programs, promotional and compliance activities will be evaluated during the plan period for effectiveness in all aspects of animal management on a yearly basis. Increased numbers of animal complaints can be attributed to more effective reporting as well as increased community awareness of Council’s role in dealing with issues related to animals.

OUR PLANS Objective 1: Improve on registration renewals being completed in a timely manner and with a higher percentage rate on a yearly basis.

Activity When Evaluation Door knocks Yearly basis Evaluate current data and systems to (Minimum) improve effectiveness for door knocks to assist in achieving continual compliance in registration renewals being completed

Evaluate current methods of renewal Yearly basis Evaluate and conduct yearly reviews activities on current strategies for renewal of animal registrations eg: (mailouts, target areas of doorknocks, evaluate current methods of data collection)

Objective 2: Increase of education programs to the community

Activity When Evaluation Investigate alternative/additional 2016/2017 Review current campaign and education campaigns to assist in develop further programs with responsible pet ownership and possible introduction of a week of registration compliance. programs and events to promote further (responsible pet ownership week).

Objective 3: Reduction in complaints about dogs in council parks

Activity When Evaluation Review current park patrol program Yearly Evaluate current park patrol program and education programs. Implement and explore expanding current roster further strategies to complement for patrols and relevant educational current programs including evaluation material and programs to assist in of signage and consideration of bins reduction of complaints. Liaise with within parks. service areas to consider other options.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 20 5. Nuisance

CURRENT SITUATION

Our current data - Complaints 01/07/2015 – 30/06/2016

Refer to section 4.1 of plan page 15 for complaints statistics.

Cat cage hire – Statistics for cat cage hire between 2014 to 2016 showed that 405 Maroondah residents hired a council cat cage for up to 7 days to trap cats on their property. Council Rangers when contacted then retrieved the captured cats and transported them to the council pound for processing.

Information from park patrols – Currently the Local Laws Service Area has a roster for staff to patrol “hotspot” parks where complaints are more frequent than others. The roster and data from the patrols is reviewed and evaluated to reduce complaints. Various service areas are consulted to assist in reviewing and implementing new initiatives, for example; access signage, rubbish bins, etc.

PROSECUTIONS Successful Prosecutions between 01/01/2013 to 30/06/2016 were;

Dog Attack 22 Dog Rush 3 Contravening a Council Order 2 Unregistered Dog 19 Dog nuisance/barking 2 Unregistered cat 1 Dog At Large 23

Our Orders, Local Laws, Council Policies and Procedures

Council’s policies and procedures are to follow the relevant legislation stated in the Domestic Animal Act (the Act) regarding cats and dogs. Council orders for relevant sections of The Act are listed below. Order Pursuant to section 26 (2) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 was resolved by Council in 2012. The following was resolved:

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 21 Notice is hereby given that at the Council Meeting of the Maroondah City Council held on 20 February 2012, the Council resolved to make the following Order pursuant to section 26(2) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 to take effect 1 April 2012 (Refer to Appendix B for copy of order).

 Local Law regulating the numbers of dogs and/or cats that can be kept at a property S42 DAA

LOCAL LAWS 11 - SECTION 40 - LIMITS ON NUMBER OF ANIMALS KEPT Refer to page 18 of plan for list of animals

LOCAL LAWS 11 - SECTION 44 – POWER TO IMPOUND ADDITIONAL ANIMALS

Where a Magistrate has found a person to be in breach of Clause 40 and a Permit for additional Animals has not been granted, Council may enter the land on which the Animals are being kept and seize and dispose of any Animals being kept on land in breach of Clause 40 for the purpose of sale, re-homing or destruction.

 Local Law requiring dog owners remove and dispose of faeces deposited by their dogs in public places S42 DAA

LOCAL LAWS 11 – SECTION 41 - REMOVAL OF ANIMAL FAECES 48.1 A person in charge of an Animal must: 48.1.1 Remove any of that Animal's faeces that is deposited on any Road or Council Land or land owned or occupied by another person; and 48.1.2 Dispose of the Animal’s faeces in a manner which does not cause any nuisance or health hazard to any person or detriment to the environment.

48.2 A person in charge of an Animal on any Road or Council Land must carry a Litter Device suitable to clean up any faeces left by any Animal under his or her care or control and must produce such device upon being requested to do so by an Authorised Officer.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 22 Our current Education/Promotion and current Compliance Activities

Refer to page 19 of this plan for educational and compliance activities.

Summary Current trends and issues regarding nuisance animals show “barking dogs” and “at large dogs” to be the most common complaints received. Nuisance cats are commonly resolved easily by the distribution of cat cages to residents who capture the cats and Rangers then remove them to the Council pound. Council will review current education and promotional material to evaluate the effectiveness of reducing nuisance complaints on a yearly basis.

OUR PLANS

Objective 1: Reduce cat nuisance complaints

Continue to provide education Yearly Number of booklets distributed to material about cat enclosures and council pound, pet shop and nuisance issues to cat owners in residents. registration information packs each year.

Assist residents with dealing with cat 2016 and Evaluate and implement required trespass / nuisance problems by yearly changes for: purchasing additional cat cages Number of traps available Numbers hired out

Objective 2: Reduce dog nuisance complaints

Develop dog/animal 2016/2017 Develop and implement investigation complaint/investigation/manual manual for authorised officers

Establish/review needs to provide bins 2016/2017 Evaluate the needs for waste in parks at strategic locations disposal bins in hotspot parks to assist in reducing complaints and incidents Review current park patrol program Yearly Evaluate all current information/data for effectiveness of park patrols including, indentifying hot spots and reviewing the need for increased Authorised Officer presence.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 23 6. Dog Attacks

CURRENT SITUATION

Our current data for period

DOG COMPLAINTS 1/1/2013 – 31/12/2013 1/1/2014 – 31/12/2014 1/1/2015 – 31/12/2015 Dog - Attack 87 82 67 Dog – Menacing 47 51 31

Dog Attack Prosecutions between 2013 – 2016 total is: 22

Prosecution of Dog Attacks are broken down into the following categories:

Serious Attack 4 Minor Attack 6 Human Attack 2 Animal Attack 10

As of March 2013, the following are currently the declared dogs in the Maroondah Local Government Area, under Sections 34 and 41A of the Domestic Animal Act:

Declared Dangerous Dogs 4 (1 Guard Dog) Declared Menacing Dogs 14 Declared Restricted Breed Dogs 1

Council’s policies and procedures are to follow the relevant legislation stated in the Domestic Animal Act (the Act) regarding cats and dogs. Council orders for relevant sections of The Act are listed below.

- Order requiring dogs to be restrained in a specific manner when in public places (s.26), in place since 1 January 2011. . Refer to page 35 of this plan for Council order, Appendix B. - Order requiring dogs from being present in specific areas of the municipal district (s.26), in place since 1 January 2011. . Refer to page 35 of this plan for Council order, Appendix B. . Local Law regulating the numbers of dogs that can be kept at a property (s.42) . Refer to page 18 of this plan for Section 40 of Council’s Local Laws 11

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 24 LOCAL LAWS 11 –

SECTION 43 - PROVISION OF EFFECTIVE FENCING TO CONTAIN ANIMALS

The owner of an Animal and the Owner of the land upon which that Animal is kept must ensure that the land is adequately fenced so as to prevent all Animals being kept on the land from escaping from that land and straying on to any Council Land or Road or otherwise being at large.

Our current Education/Promotion and Current Compliance Activities

Summary Current trends have indicated a reduction in dog attacks in the city of Maroondah. The influence of a concentrated education and publicity program, regarding responsible pet ownership, is considered a major factor in the reduction. Council will continue review its compliance, education and promotional material to evaluate the effectiveness of to continue the reduction of dog attack complaints.

OUR PLANS

Objective 1: Increase reporting of dog attacks in the community.

Develop additional processes to assist 2016 and To establish improved processes and in expediting dog attack complaints to yearly review policies for handling attack be investigated by Authorised complaints and better communicating Officers. actions to the public.

Improve public awareness of what a 2016 and Evaluate this activity (and overall dog attack is and how to report using yearly review objective) by comparing number of media articles, public notices in parks dog attacks reported to council pre etc, A-frame billboards, website and post campaign. updates, direct contact and direct mail, etc

Objective 2: Decrease number of dog attacks in the community

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 25 Activity When Evaluation

Publicise key dog attack prevention Yearly and Compare number of reported dog messages through various media ongoing attack incidents yearly to ascertain articles, mail outs, website info, A- effectiveness of campaigns or frame signage or billboards, targeted programs. patrols during peak dog attack times.

Record type and number of Continue to promote Responsible education materials distributed and Pet Ownership program. record numbers park patrols conducted for effectiveness and tangible statistics from patrols to indicate an accurate representation of issues.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 26 7. Dangerous, Menacing and Restricted Breed Dogs

CURRENT SITUATION

Our current data

As of March 2016, the following are currently the declared dogs in Maroondah:

Declared Dangerous Dogs 4 (1 Guard Dog) Declared Menacing Dogs 14 Declared Restricted Breed Dogs 1

Currently, council inspects all premises in relation to Declared Dangerous, Menacing and Restricted Breed dogs prior to April 10 each year. Owners must comply with standards prescribed in the Domestic Animal Regulations and are scrutinised by Council Rangers to ensure compliance.

Council current policies and procedures are to follow the relevant legislation stated in the Domestic Animal Act regarding cats and dogs. Our current Education/Promotion and Current Compliance Activities

Refer to page 19 of this plan for educational and compliance activities. Summary

Council has a limited number of Dangerous, Restricted and Menacing dogs registered in the municipality. Trends indicate a state of stability of the numbers for these dogs, with compliance activities and education/publicity seen as an important factor in maintaining low numbers. Yearly reviews of the types and numbers of these dogs and the effectiveness of council activities will be continued and developed.

OUR PLANS

Objective 1: Identify and register all Declared Dogs in the municipality yearly.

Inspect all industrial properties in the As required Inspection activities to be reviewed municipality for dogs housed or kept and minimum and adjusted accordingly to trends for guarding purposes as required yearly and effectiveness. Provide a range of and inspect all declared dogs in educational material to the municipality. community.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 27 8. Overpopulation and High Euthanasia CURRENT SITUATION Our current data Category Period - 2013 - 30/06/2016 Dogs Total Brought in by Council 1280 Brought in by public (stray & surrender) 23 Adopted 135 Euthanized 99 Reclaimed 1060

Cats Brought in by council 710 Brought in by public (stray & Surrender) 58 Adopted 354 Euthanized 257 Reclaimed 143

Council’s current policies and procedures are to follow the relevant legislation stated in the Domestic Animal Act regarding cats and dogs. Local Law regulating the numbers of dogs and/or cats that can be kept at a property Section 42 of the Act – Refer to page 18 of this plan for Council order.

The policy associated with entering into written agreements with animal shelters or community foster care networks to provide impounding or rehoming services Section 84Y of the Act, - Current pound agreement with Animal Aid Victoria (Coldstream) encompasses impounding and rehoming of animals. Our current Education/Promotion and Current Compliance Activities Refer to page 19 of this plan for educational and compliance activities. Summary The influence of a concentrated education program, regarding responsible pet ownership, together with Council’s pound providers approach have seen an effective impounding and rehoming program implemented. Council will constantly review current compliance, education and promotional material to evaluate the effectiveness of the program and its pound agreement to ensure a satisfactory rehoming service is provided for animals.

Objective 1: Raise awareness about semi-owned cat population.

Implement “Who’s for cats?” Ongoing with Measure number and type of education campaign in local area. yearly education materials distributed and Utilise resources available from the evaluation record number of semi owned cats Bureau of Animal Welfare. handed into local pound. Evaluation of the number of media stories published and the uptake on any promotions to encourage people to take ownership of cats.

Objective 2: Identify and effectively manage any illegally operating domestic animal breeding establishments in the municipality.

Undertake education campaign to Yearly Compare number of council promote awareness about definition of registered breeding establishments breeding Domestic Animal before and after campaign and Businesses: Advertisements in local evaluate yearly the effectiveness of classifieds, Council Website related programs. Information

Objective 3: Institute a formal program of assessment for euthanasia or suitability for rehoming of dogs and cats by 2014.

Evaluate current assessment program Ongoing and Assess effectiveness of program with with Council pound provider. yearly pound provider on a yearly basis. evaluation

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 29 9. Domestic Animal Businesses

CURRENT SITUATION

Our current data

Domestic Animal Businesses (DAB) in Maroondah municipality – Total 7

Audit/Inspections 2016 – 24 programmed inspection (2 per DAB) and various random inspections

Results from Inspections – All compliant

Registration Types –

Boarding 6 Dog Training 1 Pet Shop 5

Complaints – 2

Prosecutions – Nil

Notices to comply - Nil

Our Orders, Local Laws and Council Policies and Procedures

Council current policies and procedures are to follow the relevant legislation stated in the Domestic Animal Act regarding cats, dogs and domestic animal businesses.

Our current Education/Promotion and Current Compliance Activities

Summary

Twenty Four (24) Domestic Animal Businesses (DAB) are currently registered with Council and are deemed a low risk for the community regarding animals. Programmed audits/inspections are currently bi-annual and random inspections are also conducted throughout each year. Council has been proactive in relationship building with these businesses to ensure responsibilities and standards are met. This has worked effectively and has drastically reduced complaints and number of non-compliance issues with the DAB. Council will continue to monitor and evaluate its compliance and education programs to DAB for effectiveness in reducing non-compliance and complaints.

Objective 1: Annually inspect and audit all registered domestic animal businesses.

Activity When Evaluation Continue with current programmed Bi-Annual and Evaluate any data or complaints and random compliance inspections as required about current programs foe and audits of DAB’s. effectiveness.

Objective 2: Ensure 100% compliance with registration and mandatory codes of practice for all domestic annual businesses each year.

Activity When Evaluation Maintain plan to deal with audit Yearly and as Evaluate and maintain outcomes required  Number of inspections  Number of suspensions  Number of closures

Maintain plan to investigate and act As required Maintain current compliance upon public complaints about DABs responses to complaints and evaluate yearly for effectiveness.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 31 10. Other Matters

CURRENT SITUATION

Our current Council Policies and Procedures

Council has developed a Municipal Emergency Management Animal Welfare Plan which is a sub-plan to Council Municipal Emergency Management Plan.

The Animal Emergency Plan was updated and implemented in 2016 and is annually tested, reviewed and updated.

The Plan can be found on page 39 of this plan at Appendix C.

Our current Education/Promotion Activities

Current promotion of plan is through the Council website and various media releases when the Plan is being tested.

Our current Compliance Activities

Council compliance activities related to the Plan involves the testing of the various sections within the plan to ensure they are relevant and can continue to support the Plan.

OUR PLANS

Objective 1: Ensure the Emergency Animal Management Plan is maintained and reviewed annually.

Activity When Evaluation Maintain Plan to ensure Yearly Test, review and update the Plan effectiveness to respond to annually to ensure effectiveness. emergencies.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 32 11. Annual Review of Plan and Annual Reporting

68 A (3) Every Council must—

(a) Review its domestic animal management plan annually and, if appropriate, amend the plan (b) Provide the Department of Primary Industries’ Secretary with a copy of the plan and any amendments to the plan (c) Publish an evaluation of its implementation of the plan in its annual report.

This Plan will be reviewed annually, Council’s Annual Report will publicise specific relevant information based on the animal registration year (April to April) applicable at the time. A full review of the Plan will be conducted every 3 years.

Monitoring of the plan will be conducted by the Local Laws Service Area and reported through Council’s established reporting systems.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 33 12. Appendices

A: Extract of Section 68A of the Domestic (Feral and Nuisance) Animals Act 1994 Under Section 68A of the Domestic Animals Act, every Council must prepare a domestic animal management plan, as follows:

68A Councils to prepare domestic animal management plans (1) Every Council must, in consultation with the Secretary (of the Department of Primary Industries), prepare at 4 year intervals a domestic animal management plan. (2) A domestic animal management plan prepared by a Council must— (a) set out a method for evaluating whether the animal control services provided by the Council in its municipal district are adequate to give effect to the requirements of this Act and the regulations; and (b) outline programs for the training of authorised officers to ensure that they can properly administer and enforce the requirements of this Act in the Council's municipal district; and (c) outline programs, services and strategies which the Council intends to pursue in its municipal district— (i) to promote and encourage the responsible ownership of dogs and cats; and (ii) to ensure that people comply with this Act, the regulations and any related legislation; and (iii) to minimise the risk of attacks by dogs on people and animals; and (iv) to address any over-population and high euthanasia rates for dogs and cats; and (v) to encourage the registration and identification of dogs and cats; and (vi) to minimise the potential for dogs and cats to create a nuisance; and (vii) to effectively identify all dangerous dogs, menacing dogs and restricted breed dogs in that district and to ensure that those dogs are kept in compliance with this Act and the regulations; and (d) provide for the review of existing orders made under this Act and local laws that relate to the Council's municipal district with a view to determining whether further orders or local laws dealing with the management of dogs and cats in the municipal district are desirable; and (e) provide for the review of any other matters related to the management of dogs and cats in the Council's municipal district that it thinks necessary; and (f) provide for the periodic evaluation of any program, service, strategy or review outlined under the plan. (3) Every Council must— (a) review its domestic animal management plan annually and, if appropriate, amend the plan; and (b) provide the Secretary with a copy of the plan and any amendments to the plan; and (c) publish an evaluation of its implementation of the plan in its annual report.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 34 B: Copy of Order Pursuant to Section 26 (2) of the Domestic Animal Act

Order Pursuant to section 26 (2) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994

Notice is hereby given that at the Council Meeting of the Maroondah City Council held on 20 February 2012, the Council resolved to make the following Order pursuant to section 26(2) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 to take effect 1 April 2011.

 Dogs must be under effective control (i) The Owner of any dog must keep the dog under effective control by means of a chain, cord or leash capable of restraining the dog and the end of the chain cord or leash must be attached to the dog while the dog is in any Public Place except where that Public Place is a Designated Leash-Free Area (ii) When exercising a dog at a Designated Leash-Free area the Owner of any dog must keep a chain, cord or leash capable of restraining the dog in their possession at all times and the end of the chain, cord or leash must be attached to the dog whilst the dog is within 15 metres of - any playground or children’s play equipment - any publicly available picnic facilities and barbecues - at all times during restricted time periods as designated by signage the principal location of an organised sporting event, match play or organised sports training and at all times while on any Shared Path (iii) The Owner of any dog must not allow the dog to worry, chase or threaten another person or animal (iv) When a dog is “Off Leash”, it must remain in both visual and audible range of the Owner at all times so that the dog can be effectively recalled when required.

1. Meaning of Words In this order: Designated Leash Free Area – means an area described as such in Orders made by Council from time to time under section 26 (2) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994, in which a dog may be exercised under effective control without being attached to a chain, cord or leash. Owner – has the same meaning as in the Domestic Animals Act 1994. Public Place – has the same meaning given to it in the Summary Offences Act 1966, and includes all streets, roads, footways, reserves, lanes, parks, schools, public halls and

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 35 markets. Sunrise – as defined by Bureau of Meteorology Sunset – as defined by Bureau of Meteorology

2. Designated Leash Free Areas – the following areas in the City of Maroondah are designated as Off Leash Areas where dogs may be off lead provided that the conditions of use in this Order are complied with:

 Griff Hunt Reserve, Croydon North

 Barnegeong Reserve, Croydon North

 Silcock Reseve Croydon

 Narr Maen Reserve, Croydon Hills (south of the wetlands)

 Nangathan Way Reserve, Croydon Hills

 BJ Hubbard Reserve North Ringwood (oval/open space area only)

 McAlpin Reserve, North Ringwood

 Mahon Reserve, North Ringwood

 Quambee Reserve, North Ringwood rear oval areas (excluding main oval )

 Tower Hill Drive Reserve, Ringwood

 Kalinda Urban Modified Forest, Ringwood

 Peter Vergers Reserve, Ringwood

 Ainslee Park, Croydon

 East Ringwood Reserve, east Ringwood (excluding the main oval)

 Nolen Street Park, Ringwood

 Mullum Mullum Reserve, Ringwood (excluding the main oval)

 Greenwood Park, Ringwood

 Jubilee Park/Russell Lucas Oval (excluding main oval)

 Gracedale Park, Ringwood (excluding the Tarralla Creek Trail)

 Knaith Road Reserve, East Ringwood

 Lipscombe Park, Croydon

 Town Park, Croydon (excluding Tarralla Creek Trail and the athletics track) Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 36  Brentwood Park, Croydon

 Charles Allen Reserve, Croydon

 Proclamation Park, Ringwood (excluding the athletics track)

 Dorset Recreation Reserve, Croydon (excluding the Dorset Recreation Trail)

 Belmont Park, Croydon

 Woodlands Reserve, Croydon South

 H.E Parker Reserve, Heathmont (excluding Dandenong Creek Trail)

 Glen Park, Bayswater North (excluding Dandenong Creek Trail and netball courts)

 Canterbury Gardens, Bayswater North (restricted times, on lead on all paths)

 Appletree Hill Reserve, Kilsyth South (excluding part that is fenced)

 W. Jackson Reserve, Bayswater

 Laura Court Reserve, Bayswater North (excluding Dandenong Creek Trail)

 Warrien Reserve (open grassed area only)

3. Designated No Dog/Cat Areas – because of the recognised high environmental sensitivity of the following areas, dogs and cats are prohibited from entering:

 Appletree hill Reserve, Kilsyth South (part that is fenced)

 Baringa Flora Sanctuary, Croydon North

 Bedford Park Wildflower Sanctuary, Ringwood (part that is fenced)

 Birts Hill Reserve, Croydon North

 Bungalook Conservation Reserve (part that is fenced)

 Cheong Wildflower Reserve, Croydon

 Grandfill Reserve, Croydon

 FC Rogers Reserve, Heathmont

 Loughies Bushland Reserve, Ringwood North

 Stringybark Rise Flora Sanctuary

 Russell Lucas Oval (main oval area)

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 37  Quambee Reserve (main oval)

4. Cats to be confined from Sunset to Sunrise Cats must be confined to owner’s property (either inside building or in a properly constructed enclosure) from sunset to sunrise each day.

5. Notification

The resolution for making of this Order was agreed to by Maroondah City Council on 20 February 2012.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 38 C: Copy of Maroondah Municipal Emergency Management Animal Welfare Plan

MUNICIPAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ANIMAL WELFARE PLAN

This document is a sub-plan of Maroondah City Council’s Municipal Emergency Management Plan

Updated June 2016

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 39 INDEX

Version Control

Version Date Author Section Changes Version 1.0 June 2016 Deanne Reviewed arrangements and included Keogh/Local ERC Animal Register form in line with Laws Regional Plan and contacts

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 40 8. Acronyms

CFA Country Fire Authority DEDJTR Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources

DELPW Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning ERC Emergency Relief Centre MECC Municipal Emergency Coordination Centre MEMP Municipal Emergency Management Plan MEMPC Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee MERC Municipal Emergency Response Coordinator MERO Municipal Emergency Resource Officer MFB Metropolitan Fire Brigade MRM Municipal Recovery Manager RSPCA Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals VAAT Victorian Animal Aid Trust

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 41 9. 1. Purpose The purpose of this document is to enable Authorised Officers and Administrative Support Staff to understand their roles and responsibilities when they are assisting members of the community manage their companion animals and livestock during an emergency. This Municipal Emergency Animal Welfare Plan has been produced pursuant to the Emergency Management Act 1986 & 2013 and assists in the management of animal welfare during an emergency.

10. 2. Scope The scope of this plan is to provide a coordinated approach to the management of animal welfare impacts to companion animals and livestock (Maroondah being predominately urban has minimal livestock housed in the municipality) as a result of an emergency in Maroondah. The plan provides a framework during an emergency that impacts animal welfare to clarify responsibilities and highlight existing emergency response plans and procedures. The plan describes:

 The planning requirements for animal welfare support services in emergency preparedness, response, relief and recovery;  The roles and responsibilities of agencies, organisations, owners and carers in planning for and providing emergency animal welfare support services; and  Operating arrangements during an emergency for animal welfare agencies and organisations, emergency service agencies and animal owners and carers.

11. 3. Audit This Municipal Emergency Animal Welfare Plan is a sub-plan of the Municipal Emergency Management Plan prepared under Section 20(1) of the Emergency Management Act 1986 and as such is subject to the audit provisions as detailed in Section 20A of the Emergency Management Act 1986 & 2013.

12. 4. Plan development, Testing and Review The Plan has been developed in consultation with relevant personnel, agencies and stakeholders and with reference given to the Victorian Emergency Animal Welfare Plan. This plan will be reviewed annually and tested as part of our ERC activation exercises. Further information can be found on the DEPI Website: (DEDJTR) - Guidelines for Managing Animals at an Emergency Relief Centre - Victorian Emergency Animal Welfare Plan

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 42 14. 5. Aim and Objectives The aim of this plan is to define agreed arrangements for the management of emergency animal welfare within the Municipality and define the roles and responsibilities of key agencies, stakeholders, authorised local laws officers and support staff during an emergency. This plan also provides a summary of resources (facilities, equipment, services) to be used in the delivery of animal welfare services. Our objectives are:  Contribute to enhanced public safety and community resilience within the municipality through effective planning and management of animals in emergencies.  To support and assist the principal Municipal Emergency Management Plan.  Identify triggers for activating this plan.  Coordinate Local Laws functions and animal rescue and/or shelter during an emergency.  Encourage and facilitate community awareness about the need for self managed animal plans during an emergency.  Ensure business continuity of the Local Laws team.  Facilitate the hygienic management and disposal of animal waste and carcasses during an emergency.  Assist animal owners in catering for their animals needs during an emergency.

15. 6. Agencies Support agencies integral to the effectiveness and functionality of this Plan are:

 Animal Aid  RSPCA  Dept of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources  Council and Local Laws officers  Local Vets  Victoria Police  State Emergency Services  Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning  Wildlife Victoria  Australian Veterinary Association

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 43 16. 7. Plan Activation This plan can be initiated by any of the following:  At the request of the Municipal Emergency Management Coordination Group (MEM, MERO, MERC or MRM).  At the request of local Police, State Emergency Service or Country Fire Authority in situations which do not require activation of the MEMP yet which require relief or support for domestic pets or livestock.  On the initiative of the Team Leader Local Laws for a situation of unusual or exceptional circumstances involving animals where various resources have to be managed or deployed to achieve an effective outcome. Triggers for plan activation may also include opening of a Municipal Emergency Relief Centre and/or fodder or stock water supply needed. In large scale emergencies, the Team Leader will oversee the implementation of the plan in consultation with the MECC Liaison Officer or (DEDJTR) Animal Welfare Liaison Officer assigned to the emergency.

17. 8. Business Continuity  Council would consider scale of emergency when prioritising emergency animal welfare services versus normal animal welfare services in the event of an emergency.  Regional arrangements to support day to day activities would be activated.  Council staff are multi skilled and can work across different responsibility areas if required.

18. 9. Roles and Responsibilities Upon activation the Team Leader Local Laws (or their representative) will:  Collect the Animal Sub Plan including contact details.  Report to the ERC Manager for an update on the current situation at the centre.  Assess the situation and determine what equipment is required to contain the animals in an appropriate way.  Activate team members as appropriate.  Brief all staff as they are assigned to ERC role.  Ensure all animals received by Council are entered on the ‘Register of animals’ form.  Establish separate areas suitable for various species ie. dogs, cats etc.  Organise provision for additional restraints, cages, bowls and water supply as appropriate via the MECC, once Local Laws supplies are depleted.  Re-direct large animals (horses etc) to sites more appropriate for livestock  Provide information and advice to pet owners about emergency accommodation, food supplies, water and/or animal care.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 44 19.

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 45  Ensure that all emergency expenditure is authorised by MRM and recorded appropriately.  Liaise with MECC and ERC Manager.  Ensure regular contact is made with Team members.  Monitor staff wellbeing (ie rest breaks, emotional support).  Ensure all staff going on or off duty attend the MECC for a briefing/debriefing session.  Organise resourcing to set up animal management site.  EAP (Employee Assistance Program) access will be made available to staff as required. Animal Management Officers will:  Attend at ERC.  Deliver/provide suitable temporary housing and other basic needs (water/shelter) for animals at ERC.  Coordinate housing/placement of animals at ERC.  Arrange transport/transfer of animals to welfare organisations as appropriate.  Ensure that animals are properly contained and/or secure at relief centres.  Facilitate assistance from people and/or organisations with skills or capacity in the field of animal welfare.  Maintain a record of stray animals bought to Relief Centres of other places and referring details to the Planning and Logistics Officer when required.  Advise animal owners of suitable temporary emergency housing/relocation of animals including advice to pet owners about emergency food supplies, water and/or animal care.  Record if required any incidents or requests in the Animal Management Field Log.

20. 10. Operational Arrangements Preparedness  Animal Welfare support services will be represented by Council at the Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee.  Emergency animal welfare services will be built into at least one exercise per year.  Council will ensure information in this plan is reviewed and updated annually. Prevention  The MEMPC will encourage emergency animal welfare planning to residents of, and visitors to the municipal district by promoting information sources through various means including the council website. Response/Relief In the event of an emergency impacting animals, an appointed MECC Liaison Officer or (DEDJTR) Animal Welfare Liaison Officer will interact with the MERO  or their delegate to ensure animal welfare arrangements are in place that allow effective scoping, management and referral of animal welfare needs as well as distribution of relevant public information.  In situations where a MECC has not been established, interaction will occur between the Council contact and the Animal Welfare contact listed in the Plan. Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 46 Recovery  Longer term animal welfare needs will be addressed through Municipal Recovery Plans.

21. 11. Equipment Council

Portable Pens/cages Carry Cages Feed Bowls Wading Pools (Extreme heat) Water Bowls Leads Temporary ID Collars Marquees Trestle table and chairs Blankets A-frame signs “Animal Control”

Animal Aid Emergency Equipment Inventory

Small crates 6 Medium crates 7 Large crates 7 Cat carriers 60 Rabbit/Guinea pig hutch 3 Small enclosure (no roof) 2 Birdcage 2 Collar tags (packet) 3 Litter trays 11 Thigh boots (boxes) 3 Bunting 20m Cat traps 2 Dog toys 30+ High visibility overalls 6 PVC aprons 6 Mask 1 Coveralls 6 Metal & plastic bowls 200+ Sandbags 400 Buckets 13 Treat pouches 6 Ramp 1 Medium dog bed/cushioned 6 Double cat bowls 10 Muzzle 1 Airline crate 1 Harness 2 Shade cover for crates 3 Poo bags (packets) 5 Dog collars 200+

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 47 22. APPENDIX A – Relief Centre Operational Flowchart

Relief Centre Operations – Domestic Animals

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 Page | 48 APPENDIX B – Relief Centre Animal Register

Date Time Tag# Species Breed Colour Sign In Sign Out Time/Date APPENDIX C – Contact List AGENCY NAME BUSINESS AFTER HRS MOBILE HRS Animal Aid – Mark Menze, CEO 9739 0300

Australian Veterinary Association 9600 2930

Animal Welfare League of Victoria 9328 7204

Australian Animal Rescue 0430 883 083 0438 883 083

Birds Australia 9347 0757

BADGAR Emergency Wildlife & Rescue 1300 223 427

Boarding Kennels: Homestead Kennels – Wonga Park 9722 1202 9722 1188 0418 315 612 Allendale Kennels- Warrandyte South 9844 3626 9844 3626 0402 000 213 Dogdayz Country Club- Warrandyte 9844 3292

Cat Protection Society of Victoria 9434 7155 9432 0472

Coldstream Pound 9739 0300

Country Fire Authority – Region 13 8739 1300

Department of Health & Human Services 1300 792 766 Catherine McLeod – Emergency Mgmt Coordinator 9843 6035 Peter Higgins - Manager Emergency 9843 6034 Management

Dept of Economic Development, Jobs, 136 186 Transport & Resources Regional Agriculture & Biosecurity Manager 9637 8011 John Balfour District Veterinary Officer 5624 2283 Leanne Horstman Rural Recovery Coordinator 5833 5222 Angie Grills Animal Health Officer – Knoxfield 9210 9255 Alan Ross

Dogs Victoria 9788 2500

Donkey Shelter Inc 9436 1713

Eastfield Harness Club (David Collins) 0439 656 188

Feline Control Council 9720 8811

AGENCY NAME BUSINESS AFTER HRS MOBILE HRS Ferrett Rescue 9557 5499 0428 553 609

Governing Council of Cat Fancy 9752 4217

Lort Smith Animal Hospital 9328 3021

Maroondah City Council 1300 88 22 33 9027 0628 MEM Andrew Fuaux 9298 4497 MERO Vincent King 9294 5662 Deputy MERO Michael Arhontis 9294 5678 MRM Kirsten Jenkins 9294 5662 Deputy MRM Adam Cooper 9294 5702 T/L Local Laws Merg Mikaelian 9294 5655 ERC Managers Adam Todorov 9298 4489 Diane Vrahnas 9298 4232 EM Officer Deanne Keogh 9298 4371 Local Laws After Hours 1300 88 22 33

Microchip Databases: Central Animal Records 9706 3187 Australian Animal Registry 02 9704 1450 National Pat Register 1300 734 140 Homesafe ID 1300 537 140 0439 117 720

National Pet Register 1300 881 606

Pony Clubs: Ringwood Horse and Pony Club 0409 354 021 0409 354 021 Mountain District Horse and Pony Club 9728 4644

Project Hope Horse Welfare Aust 1300 881 606 Red Cross 1800 131 701 1800 232 969 Lynette Collier – Div Operations Officer 0457 506 178 0457 506 178

RSPCA 9224 2222 Michelle Eeles – LG Services Mgr 9224 2293

Local Vets: Croydon Vet Clinic 9724 4999 Croydon Vet Hospital 9727 4004 Greencross Vets Nth Ringwood 9876 2111 Heathmont Animal Hospital 9729 4466

Maroondah City Council Domestic Animal Management Plan 2013 – 2017 51 AGENCY NAME BUSINESS AFTER HRS MOBILE HRS Just for Cats Vet Care 8736 0379 0438 938 610 Maroondah Vet Clinic 9870 0303 North Croydon Vet Clinic 9723 7779 Ringwood East Vet Care 9879 2803 Ringwood Vet Clinic 9870 6440 Thriftyvet 9720 6800 Warranwood Vet Clinic 9879 0900

VicRoads 131 170 Andrew Sharp - Regional Emergency Mgmt 9881 8032 Officer

Wildlife Rescue and Information Network 0419 356 433 0419 356 433 (WRIN)

Wildlife Rescue Emergency Service (WRES) 0427 301 401 0427 301 401

Wildlife Victoria 1300 094 535 0417 380 687