E-Petition

The Petition of residents of the State of Queensland draws to the attention of the House that current public transport policy in Brisbane largely prohibits dogs from travelling on trains and buses, with only limited access on some ferry services during off-peak times.

This creates barriers for dog owners who rely on public transport for everyday travel. As a result, many residents are required to use private vehicles for routine journeys such as veterinary visits, park access, and cross-city travel. This increases car dependency and reduces the accessibility and efficiency of the public transport system.

In contrast, many international cities in the United Kingdom, Europe, and parts of the United States allow dogs on public transport under regulated conditions such as leashing, containment, designated areas, or off-peak travel. These approaches demonstrate that pet-inclusive transport can be managed safely without compromising hygiene, safety, or passenger comfort.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to consider:

1. A trial allowing dogs on selected public transport services, such as designated train carriages or off-peak travel.
2. Designated dog-friendly areas on CityCats and ferries.
3. Clear guidelines for responsible pet travel, including leashing and behaviour standards.
4. Exploration of a permit system linked to dog registration.

The aim is a balanced approach that improves accessibility while maintaining safety and operational standards.