Have your say on proposed Local Laws Review

Published on 30 October 2023

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Rockhampton Regional Council is seeking feedback from Rockhampton Region residents on the proposed amendments to the Animal Management and Parking Subordinate Local Laws.

Planning and Regulation Councillor Grant Mathers said the amendments had been proposed to ensure both the animal management and parking laws kept pace with the growth of the Rockhampton Region.

“Changes to these local laws have been driven by community input and through Council's commitment to enhance service delivery,” Cr Mathers said.

“The proposed amendments will help to align local regulations more closely with the lifestyles and expectations of our Rockhampton Region community and this is the community’s opportunity to provide feedback to us through a formal channel.

“As we continue to experience growth in the Rockhampton Region and witness more people choosing our area as their place of residence, it becomes essential to adapt local laws to ensure that our residents are safe and that pet owners are responsible and considerate of others.

“Last year Council received 3359 customer requests relating to animal management, and these proposed amendments to the Animal Management Subordinate Local Law will allow for more effective management of nuisance animals and barking dogs.”

Cr Mathers highlighted that alongside the revised provisions for managing nuisance animals, other key proposed revisions involve expanding access to dog off-leash areas, providing more options for the community, and the inclusion of Native Bees, offering distinct regulations for the keeping of native bees in contrast to European bees.

“The expansion of dog off-leash areas responds to the growing need for spaces where residents and their canine companions can interact, exercise, and socialise freely,” Cr Mathers said.

“These areas not only contribute to the physical health and mental wellbeing of pet owners and their dogs but also foster a sense of community and neighbourly engagement.

“In addition to the proposed amendments, parking area revisions are also proposed under the Parking Subordinate Local Law.

“Changes to parking areas and related offences will help promote efficient parking space turnover and boost availability.

“We encourage all residents to have their say by submitting their feedback and suggestions via mail, email, or Engagement HQ.

“When providing your submissions, please clearly state the grounds for your submission and provide the circumstances supporting your viewpoint.”

To have your say, visit https://engage.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/local-laws-review

Consultation will end at 5pm on November 24, 2023.