Victoria Labor promises to lift ban on dogs in venues — The Guardian

Australia’s Victorian Labor Party has promised, if re-elected in the November election, to amend food safety legislation to lift the ban on dogs in venues. Currently, owners may be with their animals only outdoors and under limited conditions, while compliance with the rules is mainly overseen by local councils.

As The Guardian reports, each venue will decide independently whether to allow visitors to bring pets. The government also plans consultations to determine exactly where dogs will be permitted inside venues.

Reaction from dog owners

Dog owners surveyed by the publication at Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens generally supported the initiative. One of them said he chooses places to relax depending on whether his Tibetan terriers can join him.

Kimberly Malcolm, a representative of the Australia Hotels Association lobbying group, said clearer rules on animals would benefit both venue owners and visitors.

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Premier Carroll said that pubs in European countries have long been pet-friendly. In his view, allowing dogs in pubs could contribute to economic development and make such venues more family-friendly.

Other election promises

Carroll also said that, if re-elected, Labor plans to give venues an automatic right to operate until 03:00. The party promises to reduce the waiting time for a standard liquor licence from 11 to six weeks, allow employees under the age of 18 to clear tables, and consider holding more concerts for minors in pubs and concert venues.

Opposition leader Jess Wilson said she does not object to pubs closing later or to dogs being present there, but believes these measures will not improve consumer confidence. She stressed the Coalition’s plan to reduce the tax burden on businesses.