On April 29th, 2026, my life was irrevocably changed by a horrific dog attack. Just 50 meters from my home in Tuppy Place Park, Edmonton, Cairns, my beloved guard dog, Corona, and I were brutally attacked by two large dogs. Despite prior warnings to secure their fence, the owners of these dogs failed to act. As a result, these dogs broke free, creating a nightmare scenario that left us traumatized.

The consequences of dog attacks extend far beyond the initial incident. Victims like me, as well as our pets, face a long road to recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially. Vet bills for Corona's injuries, medical assistance for my wounds, psychological help to cope with the trauma, and even psychological rehabilitation for the animal involved in the attack, all contribute to a heavy burden on victims.

This is not just about my story. Across Australia, countless individuals and their pets face similar ordeals every year. According to the Australian Veterinary Association, approximately 100,000 people are attacked by dogs each year, many requiring medical treatment. Yet, despite these alarming figures, comprehensive support for victims remains severely lacking.

We need a structured support system that offers immediate and ongoing assistance. This should include a Victim Assistance Fund to cover veterinary bills for injured pets, medical bills for injured people, and psychological therapy for both people and animals affected by attacks. Importantly, witnesses of these traumatic events should also have access to psychological help.

Local governments must enforce stricter regulations on pet owners to ensure they secure their properties and prevent such incidents from occurring. Clear and enforceable penalties should be established for negligence resulting in dog attacks, with a portion of fines allocated to the Victim Assistance Fund.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a call for policy change that prioritizes the well-being of dog attack victims and their affected companions. Together, we can demand a future where help is available, accessible, and comprehensive for those who need it most. Please sign to make this crucial change possible.