Public Exhibition of the Wildlife Protection Area Policy
Update: March 2026
Thank you to everyone who provided feedback during the consultation period. The draft Wildlife Protection Area Policy was adopted at the Council Meeting on Monday 23 March. The final Policy will be added to Council's Policies, Codes and Registers page. To view the meeting recording, visit the Meetings of Council webpage.
What is a Wildlife Protection Area?
A Wildlife Protection Area (WPA) is a special area set aside by Council to protect native wildlife. These areas help reduce the harm that companion animals can cause to our native birds, mammals, and reptiles.
How are they established?
Council can declare a Wildlife Protection Area on Council-managed land under the Companion Animals Act 1998. In the Georges River Local Government Area, we use Category 2 Wildlife Protection Areas. This means:
- Cats are completely prohibited - no cats are allowed in these areas
- Dogs must be on a leash - dogs can visit but must stay on established tracks, pathways, and roads
- Dogs cannot roam - dogs are not allowed to wander into the bushland
Where are our Wildlife Protection Areas?
We have declared 19 bushland reserves as Wildlife Protection Areas. These include parks like:
- Carss Bush Park
- Gannons Park
- H.V. Evatt Park
- Bald Face Point Reserve
- Cedar Street Reserve
You can see all 19 areas on our website maps and in the full policy document.
Why Do We Need a Wildlife Protection Area Policy?
The Georges River area is home to over 330 native animal species. This policy helps us preserve the rich variety of native species in our area by setting clear measure for compliance and responsibilities for both Council and community to support areas identified for protection. The Policy also outlines what and where these areas area, and the types of things that are allowed in protected areas. Working together, this Policy:
| protects native wildlife and biodiversity | |
| creates safer, more accessible reserves | |
| supports responsible pet ownership | |
| provides clear enforcement tools |
For dog-owners looking for off-leash dog parks, we have 10 parks where they can run, exercise and socialise leash-free with other dogs and visitors. For information on these areas, please visit our off leash dog park page, where you can see all the parks and plan your next visit.
How We Developed This Policy
This draft Policy is the 2025 revision of the current Wildlife Protection Area Policy, first adopted in 2022. Since then, we have worked closely with our community and best practice approach to bring refinements to the draft 2025 version.
How our community can be involved
The draft Wildlife Protection Area Policy was on public exhibition from 24 September to 24 November. During this time, the draft Policy was available for a set number of days for everyone to view and provide feedback. You can read the full draft Policy here: Draft Wildlife Protection Area Policy.
Feedback has closed, but if you would like to enquire about this project, please quote 'YOUR SAY SF25/6577 Wildlife Protection Area Policy' at the beginning of your message and return:
- In person to Georges River Council Civic Centre or Libraries
- Via email: mail@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
- Via post: PO Box 205, Hurstville BC NSW 1481
What happens next
Your feedback will be reviewed and will inform the final version of the draft Policy. When the Policy is endorsed by Council, it will be published on our website.
Do you need assistance reading and accessing this page?
For a free interpreter call us via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450
If you have a hearing or speech impairment, please contact the National Relay Service:
- Voice Relay number: 1300 555 727
- TTY number: 133 677
Do you need help accessing or reading this page?
-
Call us via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS):
Phone 131 450 -
Please contact the National Relay Service:
Phone 1300 555 727
