Western Australia passes cat curfew laws, giving councils new powers
Western Australia's parliament gave councils power to introduce cat curfews and containment laws.
Western Australia's parliament has given local councils new power to control roaming cats. The Cat Act amendments are backed by both sides.
The amendments let councils restrict cats to their owner's property. Councils can ban them from public areas unless conditions are met.
Councils can introduce curfews and require cats to be under control when outside. The City of Canning is reviewing its local law.
It is asking residents whether to keep current rules or add a night-time or 24-hour cat curfew. During parliamentary debate, MLA David Bolt said the law addresses a real problem.
He shared his own experience of losing pet cats to cars and predators. MLA Bevan Eatts said councils should have flexibility to respond to local conditions.
He warned that giving councils power and making it work were two different things.
- both sides of parliament
- Backing
- City of Canning
- First council consulting residents
- David Bolt, Murray-Wellington
- MLA supporting change
Why it mattersCouncils can now set local cat rules to protect wildlife and reduce conflicts between cat owners and residents.
AustraliaWestern Australian pet owners may face cat curfews or containment requirements depending on their council's decision.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 10 h ago
