The Hobart City Council will workshop its draft Dog Management Policy 2025-30 on Monday. No decisions will be made at this meeting, as the draft will be considered for public comment at a later date.
One of the policy’s most debated topics is the future of South Hobart Oval. Community feedback shows an even split on whether dogs should continue to exercise off-lead at the oval or if this access should be restricted. Currently, South Hobart Oval is the only major city sportsground where off-lead dogs are allowed, due to a historic lack of nearby open space for dog exercise.
The long-standing tension between the South Hobart Football Club and local dog walkers has placed the City in a difficult position. Restricting dog access would please the club but upset dog owners. Allowing dogs to remain would reverse the dissatisfaction.
Despite years of consultations and attempted compromises, the City acknowledges that the conflict remains unresolved after nearly two decades. As such, maintaining shared use of the oval is considered the fairest approach for now.