Have you say on our dogs policy

Published on 14 October 2026

Mornington Peninsula Shire is engaging the community on current dog controls at 19 sites across the Peninsula, with community engagement open until 6 November 2026. 

These reserves are important public open spaces and bushland areas that provide opportunities for recreation, environmental conservation and community use. They also play an important role in supporting native species, waterways and sensitive habitats protected under State and Commonwealth environmental legislation. 

This engagement follows community feedback about dog control signage at the 19 locations across the Peninsula and provides an opportunity for community members to share their views and experiences. 

Council’s Dogs in Public Places Policy provides a consistent approach to assessing where dogs may be leash-free, on-leash or prohibited. In determining dog controls, Council must consider a range of factors including environmental values, conservation zoning, habitat connectivity, waterways, wetlands and the presence of threatened species. 

Relevant legislation includes the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, the primary national environmental legislation for protecting nationally and internationally important plants, animals, habitats and places, and the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, Victoria’s key legislation for conserving threatened species and ecological communities and managing potentially threatening processes.  

The National Parks Act 1975 is also be relevant where nominated sites adjoin or function as part of broader conservation landscapes connected to national or state parks. These habitat corridors are important when considering conservation values and how dog access may affect sensitive environments. 

Community engagement will help Council understand local views and identify where clearer information may be needed. It will help to support how dog controls are explained, implemented, and understood at the 19 nominated sites. 

Mayor Stephen Batty said we know people care deeply about our Peninsula, its protected areas, as well as local parks, reserves, beaches and walking areas. 

“This community engagement process is about hearing local perspectives, answering questions and making sure the community understands how dog controls are assessed, particularly where environmental protection is an important factor," Cr Batty said. 

Community engagement is open until 6 November 2026. 

How to provide your thoughts:  

Online 

Go to mornpen.vic.gov.au/dogcontrols and take the survey online and view the interactive map.  

In writing 

Hard copy feedback forms are available on request at our Customer Service Centres in Hastings, Mornington and Rosebud. You can submit your form via email at dogspolicy@mornpen.vic.gov.au or via post to:  

Dogs Policy
Mornington Peninsula Shire 
Private Bag 1000, Rosebud, Victoria, 3939