Baw Baw Shire Council, which governs around 70 localities east of Melbourne, has introduced a new Dog Control Order requiring pets to be kept on a lead in more circumstances, even within some previously designated off-leash areas. The rule, which took effect on Tuesday, applies whenever a dog comes within 20 metres of organised sporting events, public meetings, or children's play and exercise equipment, as well as unfenced barbecue and picnic areas. Council officials say the change is intended to improve public safety by placing clearer responsibility on owners to supervise their pets closely.

Under the order, owners in fenced dog parks may also need to leash their pets if they stray too close to zones needing greater supervision, and one site, St Phillack Reserve in Rawson, has been reclassified from off-leash to on-leash due to its proximity to an unfenced playground; a nearby off-leash alternative exists at Dunstan Reserve. Council infrastructure director James Robinson said owners retain "ultimate responsibility" for their dogs regardless of designated zoning, and that the presence of seating in off-leash parks does not exempt owners from managing their pet's behaviour. Breaches of the order could result in a written warning, an infringement notice, or, in serious cases, a court appearance.