September 7th, 2024Bark up with dog park proposals: MP for Macedon

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is encouraging local councils to put forward new ideas for dog parks or existing dog parks that need an upgrade as part of Round 2 of the  New and Upgraded Dog Parks program.  

This comes as the state government highlights its earmarking of $5 million to build 16 new or upgraded dog parks across the state, providing Victorians and their furry friends more green open spaces to  enjoy close to home.  

Applications for grant funding of up to $100,000 or up to $300,000 are available to all 79  local Victorian councils for projects that enable people to socialise and exercise their dogs  off-leash in areas of greatest need.

This investment in more green spaces close to home also  supports the health and wellbeing of dog owners.  

Funding will primarily be for purpose-built facilities for dogs and their owners to enjoy –  such as new dog parks, upgrades and additions to existing off-leash areas that can include  designated ball play areas, sand digging pits, agility equipment, drinking fountains, fencing,  shelters, bins, landscaping, and lighting.  

This funding builds on the $7.6 million allocated in Round 1 of the grant program, which is delivering 19 new and upgraded dog parks across Melbourne and regional Victoria.  

Round 2 applications are now open and dog park locations will be announced in early 2025 following a competitive grants process. All projects will undergo community consultation  before designs are made final.  

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas:  “Quality, green open spaces close to home are so important to the health and wellbeing of  our local communities –giving our dog owners and their beloved furry companions a new  ‘leash’ on life!”