Proposal To Waive Dog Registration Fees For Approved Foster Carers

Jessica Phillips87:37

Okay, thank you. So my notice of motion today is a proposal to waive dog registration fees for approved foster carers. And so my recommendation is that Council, A, develop and implement a process to waive dog registration fees for approved foster carers who are affiliated with recognised animal welfare organisations, and B, prepare a detailed implementation plan for, one, the establishment of an application and approval process for foster carers. Two, criteria to ensure carers are affiliated with a recognised animal welfare group. Three, administrative systems to track and manage waived registrations. Four, investigate options to introduce a time limited exception. Example, up to two years per animal to ensure compliance and regular uptakes. Regular updates.

Jessica Phillips88:47

Thank you. I just want to start by saying a house is not a home without a dog. And every time I looked for a quote, there were so many, but that hit home the most. Because I've rescued dogs my whole life and my youngest, whenever she's having a messy day, the dog is there to comfort her. So I want to start by saying I have been a Councillor for a year but I've been a local for 39 years and a police officer for 15 years. So my experience has actually taught me the weight of responsibility and the power of practical, compassionate governance. I feel I was elected to advocate on community values and this motion does just that. My notified motion for us is quite clear to waive dog registration fees for approved foster carers affiliated with recognised animal welfare organisations. It's a targeted and sensible initiative. That supports those who are actually already doing a lot of work, that benefits our entire region. These foster carers are not asking for recognition, they're asking for relief. From a system that while well intended can unintentionally penalise those who are helping the most vulnerable animals in our community. Foster care reduces shelter overcrowding, lowers euthanasia rates and improves animal welfare outcomes. The RSPCA estimates that foster programs save councils thousands annually in operational costs registration fees, whilst modest, can often deter, especially for carers with multiple foster animals or possible fixed living incomes. And now with the closure of the RSPCA of Noosa shelter, our community has lost. Opinion, in my a critical support system. That facility was more than just a shelter, it was a lifeline. Its absence has left a gap that we must now fill through stronger partnerships with the Sunshine Coast Council, organisations and by empowering locals to step up. So this motion is not just about waiving a fee, it's actually about recognising the shift in responsibility and responding with leadership. This motion includes a robust application and approval process. It's clear criteria for affiliation with recognised welfare groups, the administrative systems to ensure transparency and compliance, and a time limitation exemption to keep records current and accountable. I believe this is actually a smart motion because it's compassionate, it's cost effective, and it's exactly the kind of initiative that our community expects from its leaders.