I am a concerned resident of Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, and I am deeply troubled by the increasing reports of rat and mice infestations affecting homes, properties, and neighbourhoods across our community.

For many residents, this issue has become more than just a nuisance. Rodents can pose significant health, hygiene, and property risks, particularly for families with young children, seniors, pets, and vulnerable residents. According to local council information, rats and mice are known to contaminate food, damage insulation and electrical wiring, and carry diseases that may impact human health.

Many households are now facing repeated and costly extermination expenses while continuing to pay increasing council rates. Residents are reporting infestations in roofs, walls, sheds, gardens, drains, reserves and surrounding public areas, raising growing concerns about prevention, waste management and environmental conditions contributing to the problem.

Both Frankston City Council and Mornington Peninsula Shire acknowledge rodents as a public health and environmental nuisance issue. However, many residents feel more proactive and coordinated action is needed.

We are calling on local councils to urgently strengthen their response through practical and preventative measures, including:

• Investigating infestation hotspots on public and council-managed land;
• Implementing integrated pest management strategies;
• Improving waste, drainage and environmental maintenance practices;
• Increasing community education and prevention support;
• Exploring pest control rebates or subsidies for affected residents;
• Working collaboratively with public health and environmental health agencies.

Residents deserve to feel safe in their homes and communities without the ongoing stress, health concerns and financial burden associated with persistent rodent infestations.

By signing this petition, you are calling on Frankston City Council and Mornington Peninsula Shire to acknowledge community concerns and commit to stronger, coordinated and sustainable action to help protect the health, safety and wellbeing of local residents.

Together, we can push for practical solutions and meaningful action for our community.