A report on why Hume City Council failed to act in time to prevent dogs attacking two people in Sunbury is being held back due to “privacy considerations”.
The community is waiting to hear why dogs were free to take down a 71-year-old lady in Melba Ave on Thursday 29 August, and a mum the following day in Withers Cl. Both required treatment in hospital for serious injuries to their legs, arms, hands, and body.
Not only did concerned residents tell council of roaming dogs bothering pedestrians in the weeks up to the first attack, but the first report of a mauling should have led to immediate action to prevent the second one.
In September, councillors promised to publish a full report on the incidents in December 2024.
At a council meeting on 9 December 2024, Anne Mallia, acting director of city services and living, told Sunbury resident Cathy Cleaver – who had a near-miss with the dogs – the report was near completion.
Cathy Cleaver.
Fast forward to Monday 10 February and Ms Cleaver asked for an update in a written question.
She wanted to know:
If the council’s animal management plan had been finalised
What improvements had been made to ensure community concerns are addressed, and
And she specifically asked for something other than being referred to the council’s website
Ms Mallia said: “Due to legal and privacy considerations council is limited in what we can share, but remains committed to releasing the findings when it is able to do so.
“Council has updated the pets and animals section of our website to provide residents with clear guidance on reporting lost or wandering dogs, reporting dog attacks, the consequences of dog attacks, and the requirements of keeping dogs that have been declared menacing or dangerous.”
The law
The council has previously claimed its hands are tied when it comes to dealing with dangerous dogs, alleging shortcomings in the state’s domestic animal act, and stated it would push for a law change.
Ms Cleaver wanted to know what changes are needed and when council will make its submission to the state legislator.
Ms Mallia said: “Council has identified gaps in the domestic animal management act that could benefit from changes and amendments.
“For example, enhancing officers’ powers to enter properties and seize dogs involved in attacks, and ensuring appropriate consequences for both the dog and its owner.
“Council will provide these recommendations to the state government for consideration in due course.”
Prior to both attacks (and subsequently), the dogs in question were roaming the streets of Sunbury. There was no need to enter anyone’s property to seize them. And after the second attack the dogs were taken off the streets quick smart and later put down.
It also seems the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (Vic) provides plenty of scope for council to take troublesome dogs off the city’s streets. More here.
