Wyndham’s existing cat curfew from 10pm – 6am is being extended to 24-hour containment this year as part of the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026 – 2029 which takes effect from 1 January 2026.

This means that, just like dogs, cats must be contained within your property boundary at all times.

Cats can be kept within your home, in a suitable cat enclosure and within your front and back yard so long as they can be secured within your property.

The introduction of 24-hour Cat Containment will include a phased education period, to help owners learn about how keep their cats happy and safe at home, with enforcement of the new hours not commencing until after this learning period in December 2026.

Enforcement of the current evening 10pm – 6am curfew will remain in place during this time.

Over the coming weeks we will be reaching out to owners with more information to help you and your pets prepare for this transition.

You can also find a growing list of resources below.

Key 2026 Dates

  • January – March: Education campaign commences
  • April – August: Caution-only (no infringements) for breaches of the extended cat curfew hours
  • September – November: Final warnings (no infringements), repeat breaches recorded
  • December: Enforcement with infringements issued for breach of the extended cat curfew hours in line with the Domestic Animal Act

FAQs

When will 24-hour Cat Containment be enforced?

The 24-hour Cat Containment rules come into effect as part of the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026 – 2029 from 1 January 2026, however enforcement (with fines) will not be introduced until December 2026.

Is the existing Cat Curfew from 10pm to 6am still being enforced?

Yes. While enforcement of the extended 24-hour Cat Containment rules is phased in, enforcement of the existing 10pm to 6am cat curfew hours remains in place.

Enforcement of the full 24-hour Cat Containment order is expected to come into effect from December 2026.

How do I keep my cat on my property?

You can keep your cat confined to your property by installing cat proof fencing, cat-proof fence top devices like ‘rollers’, cat enclosures and catios. You may also choose to keep your cat inside and use cat harness and leashes when outside. Check out the growing list of resources below.

What fines are applicable to owners whose cat is found wandering?

The fine for an owner of a wandering cat that is registered is currently $102.00.

The fine for failing to apply for or renew a cat's registration is $407, which is the prescribed penalty under Council’s Local Law.

These fines currently apply to Wyndham’s existing cat curfew of 10pm to 6am.

Fine amounts are reviewed each financial year and enforcement of the extended 24-hour Cat Containment hours will not come into effect until  December 2026.

Can I take my cat for a walk outside of my property on a lead?

Yes, as long as you have the cat secured in a harness or a cat carrier and under effective control.

What are the benefits of cat containment?

The RSPCA recommend keeping cats at home contained within your property as the best way to keep them safe from harm, with containment increasing their life expectancy by up to 10 years. Containing our cats prevents them from getting hit by vehicles, becoming injured in fights, getting lost, catching diseases, killing native wildlife and annoying neighbours by spraying, fighting and digging in gardens.

What do I do if a cat is wandering onto my property and causing a nuisance?

If you know the owner of the cat, we would encourage you to speak with them first.

If you have issues with cats trespassing or you would like to request a cat trap from Council, you can contact us on 1300 023 411.

Was there community consultation on the 24-Hour Cat Containment extension?

Yes community consultation was conducted in 2025 as part of the development of the Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026 – 2029, with trespassing cats one of the top issues raised during engagement.

Resources and Tips

Check out this growing list of resources to help to you and your pet prepare for the change, along with top tips from the RSPCA and other local Councils with cat containment in place.

Language Resources

  • Arabic
  • Hindi
  • Simplified Chinese
  • Korean

Visit the RSPCA website

Catproof Fencing and Enclosures

Enclosures

Fence Rollers

  • An example of a fence roller in a townhouse courtyard setting that can be attached to your existing fenceline
  • How to build a rolling pipe you can attach to your existing fenceline in your backyard

Catproof Fencing

Transitioning your Outdoor Cat

Pick up tips on transitioning your cat and enrichment activities to keep them active and mentally stimulated at home.

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