Citizens’ Jury: Reducing the numbers of Unwanted Dogs and Cats, South Australia

In late 2014, democracyCo designed and facilitated a citizens’ jury for the South Australian Dog and Cat Management Board.

Major reforms were underway to curb the huge increases in unwanted pets, and the Environment Minister, wanted community policy designed around key reform objectives. 

35 South Australians were selected to be part of the Jury. The Jury sat for 5 sessions over a 2 month period.

The Dog & Cat Citizens Jury was supported by a Core Reference Group – who oversaw the process and assisted in providing the Jury with balanced evidence. 

This group included:

  • The Dog and Cat Management Board
  • The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources
    The RSPCA (SA)
  • Animal Welfare League
  • Local Government Association (SA)
  • The Australian Veterinary Association (SA/NT Division)

The Jury’s report can be found here.

Reports / Outcomes / Influence

The recommendations from the Citizens Jury have now nearly all been legislated and regulated.

The new laws can be found here.

Related Project Media​

Why the Dog and Cat Jury was so successful.

The Advertiser: Adelaide reacts to Dog & Cat Jury Report

Status Updates: Dog & Cat Jury Outcomes

Get Involved

Are you interested in how our democracy works? And want to help be part of making it work better? Register to be part of our Deliberative Army, all committed to working with government to develop public policy.

Register