MORE HELP FOR VICTIMS OF DOG ATTACKS AND RANGERS

Chief Minister Jon Stanhope is pleased rangers and victims of dog attacks will be better protected thanks to ACT Government amendments to a Bill approved today.

Mr Stanhope said: "The amendments to the Domestic Animals Amendment Bill 2009 will help victims of dog attacks or harassment to seek compensation, and also broadens the protection afforded to the Rangers and their families."

He said the majority of owners of offending dogs involved in attacks were generally willing to provide their details to other parties.

"However, a small minority of dog owners refuse to do so, thwarting the potential of victims to pursue compensation for their injuries or loss, should they choose to do so."

Mr Stanhope said the ACT Government's amendments, made in response to concerns from attack victims, and Rangers who have been abused by irate dog owners, would enable the Registrar of Domestic Animal Services share the dog owners' details with victims - "something which has proven difficult in the past".

"Another important change in the Bill is designed to protect Rangers."

Mr Stanhope said the impoundment of a dog can be an emotive issue.

"There have also been a number of prosecutions in the ACT Magistrate's Court in relation to attacks on staff."

Mr Stanhope said the Bill's amendments would limit the amount of identifiable personal information Rangers are required to display in the field, replacing their full name with an identity card featuring a unique identification number.

"This is consistent with the identity cards used by police and parking inspectors."

"This is designed to help protect our Rangers (and their families) from threats, while continuing to provide members of the public with reassurance that an officer is fully authorised.

"The amendments to the Bill will provide legislative backing to Domestic Animal Services staff as they carry out their duties," Mr Stanhope said.

Media Contact:

John Schalch
62058500
0434 667 317
john.schalch@act.gov.au

Or

Jess Wurf
6205 0504
0411 772 700
jess.wurf@act.gov.au