Victoria to allow dogs inside pubs if Labor wins election
Victoria's Labor will overturn the ban on dogs in pubs if re-elected in November.
If Labor wins the November election, Victoria will change its food safety laws. Pubs will then decide whether dogs can eat indoors with their owners.
Currently, dogs can only be in outdoor areas. Councils are in charge of enforcing these rules.
The government said individual publicans will make the choice. They will do this just as they choose their menu and music.
The change follows Europe's model, where dog-friendly pubs have operated for decades. Pet-friendly venues earn more money and become more family-friendly, the government said.
Talks will decide exactly which areas can allow dogs. Dog owners say the ban stops them visiting pubs they would otherwise attend.
- November
- Election date
- Outside only
- Current location for dogs
Why it mattersFor many dog-owning Victorians, this could expand where they socialise and dine. They can do this without leaving their pets at home.
AustraliaIf passed, the change would make Victoria the first Australian state to formally permit indoor dogs at licensed venues.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
