Gerald Lynch
Caroline Springs is a posties’ nightmare, according to new data listing the suburb as having the most dog-related incidents in Victoria.
Australia Post is calling on local councils to adopt stricter measures in response to the alarming number of dog-related incidents involving posties.
New data has revealed more than 49 posties a week across the nation have fallen victim to dog-related incidents in the past six months – an average of ten per day – with fears these numbers will continue to rise in the lead up to holiday season.
In the past six months, 1277 dog-related incidents have occurred nationwide, with one in three dog-related incidents occuring at the customer’s front door during parcel deliveries, increasing the risk to posties ahead of the upcoming Black Friday sales and Christmas season.
To help mitigate continued threats, all posties are equipped with a hazard device to log aggressive dog behaviour, with councils alerted to more serious cases.
Australia Post general manager of safety and wellbeing Rod Maule stressed the importance of councils implementing stronger measures to prevent dog attacks, including increased monitoring and enforcement of animal management laws.
“As we head into our peak season and delivery volumes increase, there is a serious concern for the physical and mental wellbeing of our posties, particularly around dogs,” he said.
“Aggressive or dangerous dogs are reported to council and local rangers, however too often we see risks are not properly mitigated. This often leads to multiple instances of the same dog repeating aggressive behaviour.
“As the holiday season approaches, dog owners need to be mindful that all visitors, including posties, should have safe access to the front door without being stopped by a dog. Dog ownership comes with responsibilities, and we need council support to effectively enforce laws and regulations to ensure the safety of our people.”
A Melton council spokesperson said council investigates all dog related issues that are reported and enforces any offences.
“We are committed to working with Australia Post to identify any concerns they have with particular properties within the City of Melton to reduce these types of incidents occurring,“ the spokesperson said.
“We encourage dog owners to be proactive in addressing any issues to help protect community safety.”
