New ideas sought for Victorian dog parks to support wellbeing of both dogs and owners

More locations are being sought by the Victorian Government to build and upgrade dog parks across the state – providing Victorians and their dogs with more dedicated spaces to get outside and exercise, socialise or learn some new tricks.

Applications for Round 2 of the New and Upgraded Dog Parks program is now open with $5 million of grants available for councils to put forward new ideas for dog parks or existing dog parks that need an upgrade.

This funding builds on the $7.6 million allocated in Round 1 of the program, which has funded 19 upgrades and new build dog parks which are now in their design and consultation phase.

Grants of up to $300,000 are available to deliver projects that enable people to socialise and exercise their dogs off-leash in areas of greatest need. This encourages healthy play and socialisation for dogs and supports the health and wellbeing of dog owners as well.

Features can include designated ball play areas, sand digging pits, agility equipment, drinking fountains, fencing, shelters, bins and shading, as well as other park enhancements like pathway improvements, landscaping, and lighting. 

The Pet Census showed that dogs are Victoria’s most popular pet and that 71% of dog owners exercised their dogs off leash in designated off leash areas, parks and beaches – that’s why the State Government is investing $13.4 million to build new and upgraded dog parks across the state.

The dog park locations will be announced early next year following a competitive grants process open to all Victorian councils. All projects will undergo community consultation before designs are made final.

More than 30 dog parks have already been completed across Victoria, in suburbs stretching from Werribee to Pakenham and regional Victoria including in Mildura and Portland.

For more information and to apply visit environment.vic.gov.au/dog-parks.

Image. Credit: Pupsy.