LOCAL government authorities have welcomed the state government decision to progress the Cat Amendment (Local Laws) Bill, empowering councils to make and enforce local laws regarding cat containment.

If adopted the reforms will enable local governments to implement cat containment measures that reflect local needs and community expectations, with councils currently hamstrung in what they can enforce.

Through the bill, local governments will be able to implement local laws that include restricting cats to their owners' premises, prohibiting cats from all public areas, or introducing cat curfews.

Shire of Mundaring President Paige McNeil said council supported the proposed changes to the Cat Act.

“In late 2024, council resolved to review our ‘keeping of cats’ local law in response to strong community feedback about the protection of native fauna. Since that time, council has been advocating to the state government for legislative changes that would allow local governments to better reflect community expectations in their local laws,” she said.

“Once the legislative changes are passed, council will undertake a formal review of our ‘keeping of cats’ local law. This process will include community consultation to ensure any future approach reflects the views of our residents.

“Our community cares deeply about protecting native wildlife and preserving the unique natural environment that makes the shire such a special place to live.”

City of Swan chief executive officer Stephen Cain said if council is supportive of the draft local law, public feedback will then be requested.

“The updated local law will consider the recent state government announcement providing local governments’ opportunity to strengthen local rules related to cat containment.

“The city currently manages a free cat trap program for residents who have ongoing concerns related to cats on their private property.”

In 2025 the city received 451 requests for service under this program.

Shire of York acting chief executive officer Alina Behan welcomed the state government’s review of the Cat Act and the opportunity for local governments to provide feedback.

“We recognise the impact that roaming and uncontained cats can have on native wildlife and the broader natural environment, particularly in regional areas,” she said.

“Like many local governments, we manage ongoing complaints relating to stray and wandering cats and look forward to contributing practical, on-the-ground insights to help shape balanced and workable legislation.”

Town of Bassendean chief executive officer Cameron Woods said the town was committed to encouraging responsible cat ownership and supporting measures that protect native wildlife.

“We already undertake a range of education initiatives to help residents understand the benefits of keeping cats indoors or otherwise safely contained to their property,” he said.

Mr Woods said indoor cats are generally healthier, live longer, and are far less likely to harm local wildlife or become a nuisance in the community.

“Under our existing cat local law 2021, the town has four designated cat prohibited areas - Bindaring Park, Point Reserve, Sandy Beach Reserve, and Success Hill Reserve. Cats found within these areas may be seized and impounded, and their owners may incur penalties.

“These protections help safeguard the sensitive habitats and native species that make our local environment unique. If the state government’s Cat Amendment (Local Laws) Bill is passed the town will explore amending its existing cat local law to include additional cat containment laws that protect wildlife and promote responsible pet ownership.

“Enforcement of any additional responsibilities would be managed using our existing ranger services workforce, who deal with the impounding of animals and engage with residents to resolve cat-related nuisance issues.

“At the same time, we will continue to prioritise education and practical support for our community, including information on safe cat enclosures, keeping cats indoors, and reducing the risks associated with roaming.”

City of Kalamunda Mayor Margaret Thomas said the city encouraged responsible cat ownership, with the ‘control of cats’ local law 2023 requiring the registration, microchipping, and sterilisation of cats.

“The city encourages all residents to practise responsible cat ownership and recommends that cats be contained on their property for the safety of both the animals and native wildlife.”

Local Government Minister Hannah Beazley said in progressing cat containment local laws, local governments will also be able to consider transition arrangements for existing outdoor cat owners and are encouraged to continue to explore other strategies and initiatives to support outdoor cat owners with the implementation of the local laws.

“If passed, the bill will empower individual councils to engage with their communities on how they approach cat containment and then make local laws which reflect the needs of their community.”

Public consultation is also underway on the statutory review of the Cat Act 2011.

Written submissions are invited on domestic cat management topics, including registration, enforcement and compliance, sterilisation, microchipping, breeding, and limits on the number of cats owned.

The proposed amendments will result in better protection for Western Australian wildlife, with roaming pet cats estimated to kill millions of birds, reptiles, and small mammals each year.