G’day,

There’s a moment many dog owners know too well.

You’re standing at the station, leash in hand, your dog beside you, ready to go anywhere with you.

But you can’t board. Not because it’s unsafe, not because it won’t work, but simply because the system says no.

My name’s Terry, and I’m writing not just as a commuter, but as a guardian to Taro, my three-year-old Australian Shepherd and part of my everyday life.

In South East Queensland, our lifestyle is built around the outdoors. Walks, parks, beaches, this is who we are. But the moment public transport comes into play, that lifestyle hits a wall. For dog owners, freedom of movement depends almost entirely on having a car.

And yet, we already know this can work.

Dogs are permitted on CityCat services, and it operates safely and smoothly. Melbourne allows dogs on trains under controlled conditions. Around the world, cities have found simple, balanced ways to make public transport more inclusive, without compromising safety or comfort.

So why not here?

With Brisbane preparing for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and with rising fuel costs and congestion on the M1, there’s a real opportunity to rethink how accessible and practical our transport system can be.

We’re proposing a simple, low-risk pilot program, following the same staged approach that the CityCat used, and which has already proven to work:

• Off-peak travel only
• Designated areas (such as rear sections of trains)
• Dogs on leash and with muzzle
• Trial on selected routes

This isn’t just about convenience, it’s about connection. It’s about removing small barriers that limit how people live, move, and experience their own city. 

Let’s make public transport in South East Queensland more inclusive.

Dogs included.

If you support this idea, please sign the petition and help bring this pilot program to life.

Thank you,
Terry and Taro