The Sunshine Coast Council is developing a Dog Exercise Area Regional Plan and Network Blueprint for 2025–2045, aiming to address the needs of the region's pet owners and their dogs. Currently, there are over 54,000 registered dogs in the area, a number projected to exceed 80,000 by 2046.
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The vision of the plan is to create a network of safe dog exercise areas that align with the community's current and future needs while preserving the natural environment and respecting culturally sensitive landscapes.
Dog exercise areas promote the well-being of pets and foster community connections, in addition to encouraging outdoor activities. The Council emphasizes responsible pet ownership, providing resources to help dog owners understand local regulations regarding leashed walks and off-leash parks.
A Multi-Criteria Risk Assessment (MCRA) is used to evaluate the implications of allowing dogs off-leash in various public spaces. This assessment considers factors such as site purpose, legislation, council policies, environmental concerns, safety, and community feedback. Due to the complex nature of the assessment documents, the Council acknowledges that they may pose accessibility challenges for some users and offers support for those needing assistance.
Given the demand for dog parks, Council encourages community input for new off-leash areas. The recent consultation, running from February 4 to March 7, 2025, engaged over 6,000 residents near dog exercise areas and included 18 pop-up sessions and nine focus group workshops with representatives from various organizations. More than 2,300 individuals participated in the survey, with a majority expressing support for new dog parks and adjustments to existing spaces.
Community feedback highlighted varied perspectives. Dog owners sought more off-leash areas, especially along beaches, while non-dog owners preferred stricter regulations for safety and environmental protection. The Council incorporated this feedback, leading to the addition of two new dog parks in Eumundi and Coolum, proposals for 22 parks in total, and improved planning for beach access.
The action plan will be rolled out in stages, contingent upon funding and budget approvals. Updated local laws regarding dog management will be implemented on July 3, 2026, following their adoption in April 2026. The Council aims to balance the interests of dog owners and non-dog owners, ensuring safety and accessibility for all.
Future timeframes include short-term initiatives from 2025–2030, medium-term expansions from 2031–2040, and long-term goals beyond 2041. Funding for these developments will be explored through the Council’s budget processes and potential external sources.