Inspection Programs for Animal Education & Compliance

A SIP is a planned program coordinated by the Local Government Authority to confirm compliance with State and Local Legislation. Section 134 of the Local Government  Act 2009 states that a local government may, by resolution, approve one of two inspection programs. 

1. A systematic inspection program; or
2. A selective inspection program. 

WTA will br conducting a systematic inspection program. This program was approved by resolution of the WTA Members which included information on the:

• Purpose of the program;
• Start of the program;
• Type of program and property decription; and
• Period (duration) of the program. 

The resolution can be found here.

The resolution amending the start and period of the program can be found here.

To ensure all animal owners are compliant with both State and Local legislations. The program increases awareness, compliance and education to residents regarding the laws and obligations of responsible pet ownership. 

In particular the WTA SIP will be focusing on;

• Residents having their dogs and cats registered.
• Ensuring animals are contained to the property by adequate fencing or enclosures.
• Ensure that people are only keeping the numbers of animals allowed on their property. 

Yes. Pursuant to the COMALCO Act 1957 (Item 45), Rio Tinto is able to perform services of a Local Government. The Local Government Act 2009 sections 133 and 134 outline the provisions for 'Power of Entry' for an authorised person under and approved inspection program. However, generally the officers can complete the inspection without having to enter your yard. This SIP has been approved by resolution under section 113 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008.

Yes. The WTA will advertise the program dates at the minimum of two weeks out from the program commencing.

If you are home at the time of the inspection the authorised person must inform you, that they are an authorised person and state the reason for entering.

Yes. As outlined in section 133 of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 the WTA can enter your property without you being home. The WTA has a Standard Operational Procedure (SOP), which sets guidelines for how the program will operate. This includes, but is not limited to:

1. Evidence gathering.
2. Entering properties.
3. Respecting privacy of residents.
4. Interviewing (requiring an owner/occupier to provide specific information).
5. Education/enforcement and compliance.

If you are found to be non-compliant with animal registration requirements, you will be issued with a Penalty Infringement Notice (PIN) of $322.00 for failing to register your dog. 

You will have 14 days to register your dog and comply with the animal registration requirements.

If compliance is met and WTA receives the animal registration/permit fees within the 14 days, the Infringement Notice will be withdrawn. The WTA will then notify the recipient via email or mail that the PIN has been withdrawn. 

If you require a time extension, please place your request in writing and email it through to admin@weipatownauthority.com.au

An extension may be approved depending on your circumstances.

Yes. You can challenge a fine issued to you if you believe you have a reasonable excuse as to why you were non-compliant. You must complete the WTA infringement Notice Review Application form and submit to the WTA admin@weipatownauthority.com.au within 14 days of receiving the PIN. The WTA will review your request and respond to you in writing advising of the outcome.

All unpaid fines will be lodged with the State Penitentiary Enforcement Registry (SPER) and an enforcement order will be issued. There will be an additional registration fee added to your amount owing. If you receive an enforcement order from SPER, but do not act on it by the due date one of the following enforcement actions can be taken against you:

• Suspension of driver’s licence;
• Direct your employer or financial institution to deduct funds from your pay or bank account;
• Register an interest over your property;
• Immobilize your vehicle;
• Seize or sell your property; or
• Issue a warrant for arrest and imprisonment.