Ferry users answering a month-long survey have voiced overwhelming support for a trial of dogs on Brisbane public ferries.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said TransLink would run a three month trial allowing dogs on ferries and CityCats after 86 per cent of respondents supported the idea.
“People have been telling us for a while now that they wanted us to give this idea a go, but it was important that we asked people for their views on how the trial could be run,” Mr Bailey said.
“The survey closed this week with almost 5,000 responses.
“It probably isn’t surprising that the vast majority of dog owners and assistance dog owners supported the trial, but more than half of respondents who did not own a dog also thought the trial was a good idea.
“Findings showed 85 per cent of respondents supported pet dogs travelling on CityCats, 80 per cent on cross river ferries and 77 per cent on City Hoppers.
Minister Bailey said the three month trial will allow TransLink to monitor how people respond to the trial and use the service, giving it time to consider extending the trial and making any necessary policy changes.
He said a start date for the three month trial would be announced once TransLink had analysed the survey feedback to define the rules for carrying pet dogs on ferries.
TransLink will also continue discussions with Brisbane City Council, ferry operator Transdev and accessibility reference groups before any trial starts.
The proposed trial will allow pet dogs on ferries and CityCats on the condition:
- They only travel during off-peak times (pet dogs will not be permitted between 6am-8.30am and 3.30pm-7pm Monday to Friday)
- Be in a carrier, or on a lead and wearing a muzzle
- Remain under the control of their handler at all times.
