Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, welcomed the introduction of tougher laws which could see owners of declared dangerous, menacing or restricted breed dogs serve up to 10 years in jail if their dog is involved in a fatal attack.

“Following on from the recent legislation that tightens the noose on the existence of restricted breed dogs like American Pit bulls, the State government has this week followed up with stronger laws that enforce owners of menacing or restricted breed dogs, to be more accountable for their dog’s behaviour,” said Mr Bull.

“The introduction of these stricter laws was as a result of the tragic death of four-year old Ayen Chol last month, which could have been prevented had the owners taken better precautions to contain their dogs.

“By introducing this new legislation the government is sending a clear message to owners of these dogs, if your animal endangers life or attacks and kills somebody, you will be held accountable, said Mr Bull.

Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, Peter Walsh, said owners of dangerous or restricted breed dogs who fail to notify their local council when their dog escapes, or when they change address, now face a doubling of penalties to $2,442.

“Penalties have also been increased to $2,442 for owners who fail to restrain a dangerous or restricted breed dog on their property or $4,885 for dogs outside their property.

“Owners of restricted breed dogs will also be required to ensure their dogs wear a warning collar when not at their property. This will provide another way for the public to recognise a restricted breed dog when they see one.

“In addition it will be illegal for people to sell or transfer ownership of restricted breed dogs,” said Minister Walsh.

“The government has gazetted new guidelines for identifying pit bull terriers to prevent dogs escaping regulation because of uncertainty over their breed, and a new telephone hotline is available to give members of the public an additional mechanism to report dangerous dogs,” said Mr Bull.

Members of the public can phone the dangerous dog hotline on 1300 10 10 80 between the hours of 8am and 6pm if they wish to report a restricted breed dog.

The hotline should not be used in an emergency – if in immediate danger of a dog attack call 000.