Stricter laws banning five 'dangerous' dog breeds

By Patricia Paolini, Business Manager, Peak Training

Peak Training has now updated our Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 training workshop to reflect the future amendments to The Agriculture and Fisheries and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 which amongst other items, bans five dangerous dog breeds. In 2008, the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act gave councils across the state the option to either permit or prohibit the five restricted breeds. From 28 August the Bill will amend the Act and remove the ability for new permits to be issued. The Bill will ban restricted breeds of dogs in Queensland. 

The amendment will include:   

• Imposing a new state-wide ban on restricted dog breeds (5 have been added to the banned list), 
• Reviewing penalties for the owners of dogs that cause harm,
• Introducing a new offence that includes imprisonment as a maximum penalty for the most serious dog attacks,  
• Clarifying when a destruction order must be made for a regulated dog,
• Streamlining the external review process for regulated dogs to minimise unnecessary delays experienced by councils and relevant parties. 

More than 8,500 complaints about aggressive dogs and dog attacks are received annually by local governments across Queensland. Approximately 2,500 dog attack victims require hospitalisation and 81 percent of these victims are children, some who have been attacked in their own homes. (Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities, Record of Proceedings, 16 November 2023, p 3643)

In a decisive move aimed at bolstering public safety, Queensland has implemented stringent new legislation banning five specific dog breeds deemed hazardous to the community. The Agriculture and Fisheries and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 (Item 2.2.1), which received parliamentary approval this year, introduced tough penalties and reinforced controls over the ownership of certain breeds. 

The breeds affected by the ban include the Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Pit Bull Terrier, and the Perro de Presa Canario (Presa Canario).

These breeds, known for their potential aggression and strength, have been subject to increased scrutiny due to their history of attacks resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. 

Under the new legislation, owners who encourage their dogs to attack, resulting in serious injury or death to a person, could face penalties of up to three years imprisonment and fines amounting to $108,000. Additionally, failing to control a dog that subsequently attacks now carries a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment. 

The amendments reflect a significant escalation in penalties aimed at deterring irresponsible ownership and mitigating the risks associated with dangerous dogs. The legislative changes were largely supported by public opinion, with more than two-thirds of respondents (69%) expressing approval of the ban during public consultations. 

Mark Furner, Queensland's Agriculture Minister, underscored the government's commitment to community safety: "Queenslanders made it clear they wanted tougher laws to address dangerous dogs, and the Miles government has responded. We will continue to collaborate with the community to educate and assist owners of at-risk dogs in complying with these new regulations to enhance community safety." 

Notably, current owners of the now-prohibited breeds are not required to forfeit their animals immediately. However, they must adhere strictly to the new regulations, including stringent containment and control measures. These dogs were previously subject to restricted breed permits, but the new legislation represents a comprehensive effort to further limit their presence in the community. 

"Animal Management officers are vital for safeguarding the animals and the communities they serve. Ongoing education reflects their dedication to professionalism and expertise. This course may discuss potential dilemmas officers face, enabling them to make informed decisions that balance the animal’s needs and the community’s interests. Updated Animal Management training ensures officers are thoroughly equipped to fulfil their duties competently, ethically, and in line with current laws and regulations. This ultimately contributes to the well-being of animals and fosters stronger community relationships.”  Louise Hainey, Peak Training

Animal Management Officers throughout Queensland are now encouraged to undertake our updated Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 training workshop available through our next Virtual Classroom course date on 8 November 2024 or call to discuss.  

BOOK YOUR ANIMAL MANAGEMENT TRAINING NOW!

If you would like to discuss our Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 training workshop, or any of our training courses and programs, please contact Peak Training on 07 3000 2174, or contact Patricia Paolini, Business Development Manager on 0407 966 716 or ppaolini@wearepeak.com.au