Australian-First Roadmap Calls for National Reform to Protect People and Pets from Family Violence

In a major step forward for Australian pet lovers, a pioneering framework is setting out to ensure survivors of domestic and family violence never have to choose between their own safety and the safety of their beloved pets.

Championed by charity Lucy’s Project and backed by a $150,000 investment from the Petstock Foundation, the National Roadmap for Change to Prevent and End Family Violence against People and Animals delivers an Australian-first blueprint to drive systemic, national reform.

An Urgent Need for Systemic Reform

Despite research¹ showing that people often delay leaving—or remain with—a violent partner due to concerns for the safety and wellbeing of their animal companions, Australia has never had a unified, national policy to address family violence used against people and animals at a systemic level.

With 73% of Australian households living with a pet², and 1 in 4 women in Australia reporting experiencing domestic violence³, it has never been more critical to advocate for greater awareness, collaboration, investment and policy action.

"Softness in All the Hardness"

Pets are often silent victims in domestic violence situations, with many owners delaying leaving out of fear for their animal's safety.

For people escaping violence, animals are often a vital lifeline. Survivor advocate Talie Star shared how crucial her pets were during her darkest moments:

“Being in a place where there was not a lot of love, my animals created that love and that safe place. It was like a softness in all the hardness.” — Talie Star, Survivor Advocate

“When you are going through pretty much daily violence, it’s a different and stronger connection.”

Protecting People and Animals Together

Monique Dam, Lucy’s Project CEO, emphasises that human and animal safety are inextricably linked.

“For too long the connection between human and animal safety has been overlooked. We know that if animals are at risk of violence, then the people who love them are at risk too,” — Monique Dam, CEO of Lucy’s Project

“When there is nowhere safe for survivors to go with their animals, many delay leaving and are forced to continue living with a partner and parent using violence. When animals are killed or harmed, or separated from them, women and children grieve this loss for decades afterwards.”

“We are calling on all levels of government to adopt the Roadmap’s recommendations and invest in coordinated reform that protects people and animals together,” says Monique.

Naomi Mancktelow, Petstock Foundation Team Lead, agrees: “Our partnership with Lucy’s Project reflects a shared commitment to creating a future where every person and animal is safe from family violence. Most Australians consider pets as members of their family, and no person should have to choose between their safety and the safety of their pet.”

“By helping to enable national collaboration and drive long-term systemic change, our support reflects our dedication to strengthening the human–animal bond that is often threatened when people and pets are experiencing domestic and family violence,” says Naomi.

Launch Dates & Details

The framework sets out clear recommendations for policy, programs and legislative change to improve the safety and wellbeing of people and animals experiencing family violence across Australia. The Roadmap will be officially launched at:

• Australian Parliament House: 19 August
• NSW Parliament House: 24 September

People and animals experiencing domestic and family violence face additional barriers to safety, including a lack of animal-inclusive crisis accommodation.

To learn more about the National Roadmap for Change or support the cause, contact hello@lucysproject.com.

Want to explore the policy details?

You can download the complete 55-page National Roadmap for Change to Prevent and End Family Violence against People and Animals directly via Lucy's Project here or request a copy by emailing hello@lucysproject.com.

About Lucy’s Project

Lucy’s Project is a charity with a mission to improve the safety and wellbeing of people and animals experiencing domestic and family violence across Australia. As one of the leading expert voices on the intersection of family violence used against people and animals, Lucy’s Project seeks to ensure every person and animal experiencing domestic and family violence can access the support they need to be safe and to heal and recover.

About the Petstock Foundation Alliance

The Petstock Foundation is proud to support Lucy’s Project through a one-year alliance and $150,000 investment to drive meaningful change. The Petstock Foundation supports initiatives that strengthen the human-animal bond and improve animal welfare outcomes. Through this partnership, Lucy’s Project and the Petstock Foundation are helping amplify awareness, advocacy and action on a national scale.

¹ Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2024
² Animal Medicines Australia, 2025
³ Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2023

Related Articles & Further Reading:

• Pet Custody in Family Law: Key Changes Introduced in 2025
• Petstock Foundation Hometown Heroes Initiative Supporting Local Communities
• How Safe Pets Safe Families Helps Domestic Violence Survivors & Their Pets in SA

Celebrate International Dog Day 2026 at Norman Lindsay Gallery's Dogs Day Out

A Paw-sitively Perfect Day in the Blue Mountains: Dogs Day Out 2026

On Saturday, August 29th, 2026, the historic Norman Lindsay Gallery in Faulconbridge, NSW, will host its highly anticipated Dogs Day Out, continuing the National Trust (NSW) International Dog Day celebrations.

Set in the lush surrounds of the Blue Mountains, this special event invites you and your four-legged companion to enjoy a relaxed, dog-friendly day filled with creativity, education, entertainment, and tail-wagging fun.

The festivities will take place from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM within the spectacular, heritage-listed grounds of the home-turned-gallery of iconic Australian artist Norman Lindsay.

Norman Lindsay with his dogs at his Blue Mountains property c.1919. Photo by Harold Cazneaux.

Norman Lindsay was famous for his deep affection for his dogs, often featuring them in his personal life and artistic surroundings. This vintage photograph by Harold Cazneaux (c. 1919) captures Lindsay at his home surrounded by his beloved dogs, reflecting the long tradition of pet appreciation at the Faulconbridge estate.

Tail-Wagging Event Highlights

Here's the lineup to keep both two- and four-legged visitors entertained throughout the day:

• ✔ Koala Detection Dog Demonstration: Meet Groot, the incredible koala detection dog from Science for Wildlife. Watch Groot in action as he uses his nose to locate koala scat, helping researchers protect wild koala populations.
  
• ✔ The Doggy Pod with Dr. Rob Zammit: Enjoy special talks and live appearances by one of Australia’s leading veterinary surgeons, sharing expert health advice, training insights, and frontline vet stories.
• ✔ Dog Paw Painting & Artist Photo Booth: Let your pooch channel their inner artist to create a custom paw-print masterpiece, then strike a pose for a family and pet portrait keepsake captured by Heartstory.
  
• ✔ Dogs Day Out Talent Competition: Enter your pup into friendly competitions featuring categories like Best Dressed / Fancy Dress, Dog & Owner Lookalikes, and Best Hairdo (Grooming).
• ✔ Springwood Dog Training Club: Watch impressive dog training displays showing off agility, obedience, and canine skills.
  
• ✔ Meet Rescue Greyhounds: Greyhounds As Pets returns to the event with gorgeous greyhounds looking for loving forever homes.
• 
  ✔ Nepean Therapy Dogs: Meet these gentle community hero dogs and learn how therapy animals support local wellbeing.
• ✔ Stick & Ball Library: Let your pooch pick their favourite play stick or ball while exploring the expansive grassed grounds.
• ✔ Stalls & Refreshments: Pack a picnic for the gardens or treat yourself to delicious snacks from onsite food stalls. Plus, grab special discounted ceramic dog and cat bowls featuring printed drawings by Norman Lindsay (from $35).

Guidelines for Dog Owners

To ensure a safe, fun, and comfortable atmosphere for all families and pets, visitors are asked to observe the following entry conditions:

• Leash Requirement: Dogs must remain on a lead at all times on the grounds. (Note: Retractable leads are strictly prohibited).
• Effective Control: Owners are responsible for their dog's behaviour. Aggressive, excessively barking, or behaviourally challenged animals will not be permitted.
• Health & Vaccinations: Dogs must be fully vaccinated, socialised, and free of any contagious illness or parasites.
• Wildlife & Bush Safety: The grounds border native bushland—please keep dogs strictly on grassed areas to protect local wildlife and avoid tick hazards.
• Pet Etiquette: Always ask permission from owners before approaching or petting another dog, and clean up after your pet using the provided waste bags and bins.
• Child Supervision: Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult and supervised near animals at all times.

Ticketing & Location Details

Event Date: Saturday, 29 August 2026

Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Location: Norman Lindsay Gallery, 14 Norman Lindsay Crescent, Faulconbridge NSW 2776

Admission Costs:

• Grounds / Event Admission: Gold coin donation gratefully accepted
• Gallery Entry (Optional): $10 per person

Parking is available on-site, along with picnic areas, a gift shop, and guided gallery tours.

For more information and booking updates, visit www.nationaltrust.org.au.

Photo credit: All images supplied by National Trust (NSW).

Related Stories:

• Retford Park International Dog Day 2026 – August 23

Animal Referral Hospital Essendon Fields breaks ground on a 1,450sqm specialist facility featuring MRI, CT, and dedicated recovery zones

Construction has officially commenced on an upgraded, state-of-the-art facility for the Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) Essendon Fields.

Located at 77 Hargrave Avenue, the purpose-built 1,450sqm site represents a major investment in specialist and emergency veterinary care for pet owners across Melbourne's north-west.

Having served the local community for more than a decade, the expanded hospital will significantly boost capacity and broaden the scope of critical care services available under one roof.

Expanded Emergency & Specialist Capabilities

Designed to handle the growing demand for urgent veterinary care, the new purpose-built hospital will feature:

• 11 Consultation Rooms & 4 Operating Theatres: Built to streamline emergency admissions and shorten wait times.
• Advanced Diagnostic Imaging: In-house access to CT, MRI, fluoroscopy, and digital X-ray technology for immediate, precise diagnoses.
• Specialised Procedure Rooms: Dedicated suites for oncology and endoscopy, backed by an expanded Critical Care Unit.
• Low-Stress Patient Care: Purpose-designed, separate wards for dogs, cats, and exotics to cater to their unique comfort needs.
• Undercover Recovery Area: A dedicated outdoor exercise zone to assist with patient rehabilitation and post-operative care.

Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the hospital’s location alongside the Essendon Fields terminal offers direct freeway access, ensuring fast transit for emergency cases when every minute counts.

“Our pets are family. When they’re seriously ill or injured, pet owners need access to exceptional care close to home," says Dr Magdoline Awad, Chief Veterinary Officer at Greencross Pet Wellness Company.

"This new facility allows us to care for more patients, broaden the specialist services we can offer, and provide our clinical teams with a purpose-built hospital that supports the very best outcomes for every animal in our care."

Representatives from Essendon Fields, Greencross, ARH, and Elite Training celebrate the start of construction.

About Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) Essendon Fields

ARH Essendon Fields is a leading 24/7 specialist and emergency veterinary hospital serving Melbourne's north-west. As part of the Animal Referral & Emergency (ARE) Network—one of Australia's largest specialist networks—the hospital collaborates closely with local primary vets to deliver advanced diagnostics, surgery, and critical care. The ARE Network is operated by Greencross Pet Wellness Company, Australia’s leading integrated pet care provider.

All images courtesy of Essendon Fields.

Hospital Location & Contact Details

Animal Referral Hospital (ARH) Essendon Fields

• Address: 77 Hargrave Avenue, Essendon Fields, VIC 3041
• Hours: Open 24/7 (Monday – Sunday)
• Phone: 03 9379 0700
• Email: essendon@arhvets.com

Visit Official ARH Essendon Fields Website & Directions →

Exporting Cruelty: Over 140 NZ Greyhounds Airlifted to Australia to Evade Historic Ban

A second charter flight carrying approximately 70 New Zealand racing greyhounds landed in Toowoomba early Thursday morning (August 13), marking a total of roughly 140 dogs exported to Queensland since New Zealand’s nationwide ban on greyhound racing took effect on 1 August.

The offshore transfers have sparked immediate outrage among animal protection groups on both sides of the Tasman. Advocates condemn the greyhound industry’s decisions as a cynical ploy to bypass democratic legislation and keep dogs running for gambling profit, rather than allowing them to retire into safe homes.

Among those forced onto the crates was Opawa Soap, a young greyhound who turns one on 22 August. She has never stepped foot on a race track, yet was flown straight into Australia's racing system before even reaching her first birthday.

Undercover footage shows un-raced greyhound Opawa Soap caged inside crate #70 at Christchurch Airport prior to export to Queensland. Photo: Grassroots Campaigns Aotearoa.

Evading the Public Will

Greyhound racing was officially banned in New Zealand following years of persistent public outcry, regulatory scrutiny, and unacceptable injury and death rates. The ban was designed to phase out the industry entirely and mandate the rehoming of remaining dogs.

Instead, Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) financed private charter flights to export the animals. The first flight departed Christchurch for Toowoomba on 6 August, followed by a second flight out of Auckland on 13 August.

Greyhound advocates from Grassroots Campaigns Aotearoa filmed the loading process at Christchurch Airport, capturing distress calls, yelps, and crying from inside the transport crates as the animals were loaded onto the plane.

“These flights are a cynical attempt by the racing industry to evade a New Zealand ban that was introduced due to public concern over high injury rates,” said Amy MacMahon, President of the Coalition for the Protection of Greyhounds (CPG).

“However, the injury rates in Australia are even worse. It seems that New Zealand trainers are just chasing gambling dollars and ignoring the welfare of their dogs.”

Out of the Frying Pan, Into Deadlier Fire

Animal welfare organisations warn that sending New Zealand greyhounds into Australian jurisdictions places them in far greater danger. Unlike New Zealand, Australian greyhound racing operates without national welfare targets, and both Queensland and New South Wales record significantly higher track injuries and fatalities.

Data analysed by the CPG shows that as of 14 August 2026, stewards’ reports across Australia have already logged 6,128 track injuries and 105 racing deaths this year alone. Industry figures reveal Queensland’s total injury rate is almost 40 per cent higher than New Zealand’s FY2025 baseline, while New South Wales exceeds New Zealand’s rate by nearly 70 per cent.

Crucially, Category F injuries—comprising on-track deaths, catastrophic trauma, and mandatory euthanasia—are dramatically higher in Australia. Queensland records a Category F rate 48 per cent higher than New Zealand's pre-ban figures.

“Greyhound racing in whatever country it's been practised in carries a significant and inherent risk of serious injury and death —and in New Zealand, we banned it due to injuries.” Dr Alison Vaughan, Senior Scientific Officer at SPCA NZ.

Compounding a National Rehoming Crisis

The influx of New Zealand dogs threatens to buckle Australia’s already struggling animal welfare infrastructure. In New South Wales, modelling from the Greyhound Welfare and Integrity Commission (GWIC) places the state's greyhound rehoming backlog at an alarming 4,100 dogs.

Advocates also point to serious biosecurity and health risks, noting recent reports of drug-resistant hookworm outbreaks impacting greyhound properties across south-east Queensland.

Track records for previously exported dogs paint a bleak picture. In April 2025, Goldstar Racing transferred 80 greyhounds to Queensland. According to tracking by CPG, two of those dogs have already been killed on track—including Goldstar Buzz, who died in July at Purga's "The Q" racing centre—while 24 others have sustained 32 distinct injuries between them.

“The NZ dogs will likely race at The Q racing centre, the deadliest greyhound racing complex in Australia,” said Amanda Holly, Director of AnimalKIND.

“This is an appalling betrayal of the public’s wishes and of the greyhounds themselves, who should have been safe but are now exposed to the carnage that occurs on Australia’s racetracks.”

Jo Webb, Director of Corporate & Government Relations at Animals Australia, echoed the toll placed on local rescuers.

“While the industry charters flights to keep dogs racing as long as they can make a buck, it will ultimately fall to the already overwhelmed volunteers and charities in Australia to pick up the pieces and find these dogs loving homes,” Webb said.

“After everything they have endured, these dogs deserve safety. They deserve peace—not to be dispatched to another country to keep running for their lives.”

Appendix: Statistical Comparative Data

The greyhound racing industry measures track harm using an "injuries per 1,000 starts" metric. Below is the comparative breakdown of injury and mortality rates between New Zealand and major Australian destinations:

Jurisdiction	Total Injury Rate (per 1,000 starts)	Variance vs. NZ Baseline	Category F Rate (Deaths & Severe Trauma per 1k starts)	Variance vs. NZ Baseline	Source Data Period
New Zealand	22.50	Baseline	2.20	Baseline	GRNZ FY25 / NZRIB Apr 2026
Queensland	31.34	+39.3% higher	3.26	+48.2% higher	QRIC Jan 2025 – Dec 2025
New South Wales	38.00	+68.9% higher	2.90	+31.8% higher	GWIC Apr 2025 – Mar 2026

• Goldstar Racing Tracking (April 2025 Cohort): Out of 80 dogs exported from NZ to QLD, 2 confirmed dead on track (Goldstar Buzz at Purga; 1 additional unconfirmed death), 24 dogs suffered 32 separate injuries, and 16 have retired.
• NSW Rehoming Backlog: GWIC modelling estimates approximately 4,100 greyhounds currently awaiting rehoming in NSW alone.

Photography credit: All images courtesy of Grassroots Campaigns Aotearoa.

Further Reading

• Victoria Greyhound Racing Death Toll Inquiry
• The Future is Virtual, Not Physical Dog Racing
• Greyhound Welfare at Boiling Point

Frenchies vs. Collies: Australia’s Most and Least Expensive Dog Breeds to Insure

Next time you find yourself asking, "How much is that doggy in the window?", you might want to factor in the long-term cost of pet insurance before bringing your new furry family member home.

New research from comparison website Compare the Market has analysed ten of Australia’s most popular dog breeds, revealing a staggering $875 gap between the cheapest and most expensive breeds to cover.

French Bulldogs Lead the Pack for Premium Costs

According to the data, the French Bulldog ranks as the most expensive popular dog breed to insure in Australia. Annual premiums for a six-month-old puppy start at $1,194 per year (around $99 a month).

Why the hefty price tag? Pet insurers calculate premiums based on risk factors including breed lifespans, historical claims data, and known hereditary conditions.

"Fancy breeds often fetch bigger price tags, but what a lot of people probably don't account for is bigger vet bills too – especially in breeds with known hereditary conditions," explains Compare the Market spokeswoman Sarah Orr.

French Bulldogs possess a flat-faced (brachycephalic) anatomy, leaving them particularly susceptible to severe breathing complications like BOAS, spinal and joint diseases, alongside skin and eye issues. Surgeries and ongoing care for these conditions can quickly climb into the thousands of dollars.

Which Breeds Are the Cheapest to Insure?

If you are looking for lower ongoing healthcare expenses, working breeds and popular designer crosses offer far more budget-friendly insurance options.

The Border Collie takes out the top spot as Australia’s cheapest popular breed to insure, with premiums starting from just $319 a year—working out to less than $1 a day.

Popular "oodle" crossbreeds also sit on the lower end of the cost spectrum:

• Cavoodles: $343 per year ($0.94/day)
• Groodles: $355 per year ($0.97/day)

“Pet insurance can be a great financial safety net for many pet owners – but of course animals with a higher risk of potential problems may have to account for that with a higher premium,” Orr notes. “For lower-risk varieties, cover can often be found for less than a cup of coffee (or a puppuccino) each day.”

Australia's Top 10 Popular Dog Breeds: Insurance Cost Breakdown

Dog Breed Type	Daily Cost	Monthly Premium*	Annual Premium*
French Bulldog	$3.27	$99	$1,194
Labrador	$2.11	$64	$771
Golden Retriever	$1.72	$52	$628
Dachshund	$1.53	$46	$559
German Shepherd	$1.53	$46	$559
Staffordshire Bull Terrier	$1.35	$41	$494
Maltese Cross	$1.22	$37	$445
Groodle	$0.97	$29	$355
Cavoodle	$0.94	$28	$343
Border Collie	$0.88	$26	$319

*Rounded to the lowest dollar amount. Source: Compare the Market.

How Have Insurance Costs Changed Over Time?

It is interesting to note how premium pricing aligns with historical veterinary claim figures.

Back in 2019, insurance claim data from Pet Insurance Australia showed that giant purebreds like the Bullmastiff and British Bulldog generated the highest individual claims (see our 2019 breakdown on the top 10 most expensive dog breeds for insurance claims).

Fast-forward to today, and while insurance premiums broadly reflect those ongoing purebred health risks, purebred popularity trends—like the massive rise of the French Bulldog—have reshaped upfront policy pricing.

What Should Prospective Pet Owners Do?

If you're currently choosing the right dog breed for your family, researching potential health risks and running insurance comparisons early will ensure you aren't caught off guard by unexpected medical costs down the track.

Always review policy features carefully, including annual payout limits, benefit percentages, and excess options, to find cover tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

Data Disclaimer & Attribution:
Pet insurance premiums quoted via Compare the Market based on a six-month-old male desexed dog with no pre-existing conditions residing in Alderley, QLD (4051). Quotes feature a $12,000 annual limit, 80% benefit percentage, and $200 excess. Quotes are indicative only; always refer to individual Product Disclosure Statements (PDS) and Target Market Determinations (TMD).

Two Peninsulas, One Unforgettable Road Trip: Explore Mornington to Bellarine with Your Pup

Spring is the perfect excuse to pack the leash and hit the coast with your four-legged best friend. But instead of choosing between the Mornington Peninsula and Bellarine Peninsula, why not experience both in one unforgettable coastal adventure?

With beautiful beaches and charming seaside towns, this peninsula-to-peninsula itinerary is made for dogs and their hoomans. That means no rush, no leaving your pup behind, and plenty of opportunities to stop, sniff, and soak up the sunshine along the way. Plus, exploring in spring means enjoying the coast before peak summer beach restrictions kick in!

So, grab the lead, pack some treats and get ready for a spring road trip where the journey is just as exciting as the destination.

Start with a Morning Run at Tassells Cove on the Mornington Peninsula

With the days getting longer and the weather warming up, spring is a perfect time to enjoy a leisurely beach adventure.

For this itinerary, make Tassells Cove at Safety Beach your first stop. Arrive early, when the morning air is fresh, and the beach is at its most peaceful. This small dog-friendly beach has soft sand and shallow waters where your pup can run, play, and splash. At the northern end of the beach, you can explore rock pools and small caves at low tide. Take care on the slippery rocks and avoid this section during high tide or rough conditions.

A Little Woof of Warning: Some neighbouring areas on Safety Beach may have different on-leash rules, so always check local council signs when exploring beyond Tassells Cove.

Want to swap Tassells Cove for another beach? There are plenty of other dog-friendly beaches around the Mornington Peninsula if you’d prefer to start your day somewhere else. Hawker Beach in Mount Martha is another off-leash beach zone where your dog can freely run along the sand and splash in the shallows. If you're heading further south, Flinders Beach is another local favourite among pup parents, with its designated off-leash area perfect for morning runs and zoomies.

Head Towards Sorrento for a Coastal Town Wander

Once your pup has had their morning dose of beach zoomies, it’s time to make your way towards Sorrento.

Why Sorrento? Because it’s the perfect place to slow down, soak up the seaside atmosphere, and enjoy a little more of the Mornington Peninsula before your adventure continues across the bay.

Known for its charming heritage buildings, boutique shops, and beautiful coastal setting, Sorrento offers plenty of opportunities for a relaxed stroll with your dog. Ocean Beach Road is lined with boutiques and larger chain stores, making it a great spot for a little retail therapy. While you browse the shops, your pup can enjoy the sights and smells of this lively seaside village from your side.

If you and your pup still have more energy to burn, the Millionaire’s Walk is one of the must-visit short trails on the Mornington Peninsula, although dogs are required to be on a leash at all times. This 1-kilometre coastal walk offers spectacular views across Port Phillip Bay and a glimpse of some of the area’s most luxurious coastal homes.

And when you’re ready for a well-earned break, Sorrento has plenty of dog-friendly cafés that beckon you to pause and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Refuelling at a dog-friendly café in Sorrento.

Pop into Flathead Sorrento for a great coffee or relax on the outdoor deck at The Smuggler, where dogs are always treated to fresh water bowls. You won’t want to linger too long, though, because there’s another adventure waiting just down the road.

Hop Aboard a Ferry Ride with Your Furry Friend

Here’s where your peninsula-to-peninsula adventure takes an exciting turn. Searoad Ferries connects Sorrento and Queenscliff with a scenic crossing of Port Phillip Bay, turning what could be a long drive around the bay into a 40-minute experience to enjoy together.

And best of all, your dog doesn’t have to miss out on the fun.

Ferries aren't just for small pups—spacious outdoor decks mean dogs of every shape and size can travel in comfort.

Dogs of all sizes are welcome on the external decks onboard so long as they are on a leash. So whether you're travelling with a tiny pup who loves being carried or a big dog who needs plenty of room to stretch their legs, your four-legged companion can join you for the adventure.

Travelling by car? Searoad Ferries makes the transition from road trip to sea voyage easy with drive-on, drive-off boarding, so there's no need to turn your vehicle around once you're onboard. Foot passengers can easily board and enjoy the same scenic ferry experience across the bay.

Once you’re onboard, head outside with your pup and take in the sweeping views across Port Phillip Bay. The fresh sea breeze, open decks, and water bowls provided onboard make it a delight for dogs. If you need a quick caffeine hit or a snack, the onboard café serves drinks and a range of light bites to help you refuel.

Ocean breezes and morning coffee: enjoying a smooth crossing along the coast with your four-legged companion.

Before you know it, you'll be pulling into Queenscliff, with a happy pup by your side and a whole new peninsula waiting to be explored.

Explore the Historic Seaside Village of Queenscliff

As you step off the ferry at the Queenscliff Terminal, you’ll be greeted by the laid-back charm of the Bellarine Peninsula. Your first stop? The historic seaside village of Queenscliff.

With your pup on-leash, make your way into the heart of town and stroll along Hesse Street. Here, Victorian-era buildings, heritage hotels, quaint cottages, and charming shopfronts create a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely walk. The village is also home to boutique shops, galleries, cafés, and specialty stores, so there’s plenty to see as you explore the streets together.

For a change of scenery, head towards Queenscliff Harbour. This waterfront precinct has a distinctly nautical feel, with boats and yachts bobbing in the marina, and waterfront cafés where you can stop for a coffee or a bite to eat. The spacious outdoor deck at 360 Q right on the harbour edge is a fantastic dog-friendly venue, or you can grab a quick bite from 3225 Cafe on Hesse Street.

Continue to Point Lonsdale for an Afternoon Adventure

After exploring historic Queenscliff, take the short drive along the coast to Point Lonsdale for another taste of the Bellarine Peninsula's seaside charm.

Take a stroll through the village before heading towards the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, one of the Bellarine’s most iconic landmarks. Dogs are not allowed inside the tower, but the surrounding outdoor reserve area (Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve) is worth checking out. Here, your pup can enjoy some off-leash freedom as long as they remain under effective control.

A Woof of Warning: Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve is operating as an off-leash area under a one-year council trial. Dogs must remain under effective control, and visitors should check the current council signage before visiting.

For a proper dose of sandy fun, you can also make your way to Narrows Beach, located between Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale. Known by locals as "Dog Beach," Narrows Beach is the only year-round off-leash section of beach in the Borough of Queenscliff. The off-leash area starts at the end of the boardwalk and extends east towards Fraser Street, giving dogs plenty of space for zoomies.

Wind Up the Journey at Ocean Grove

It’s time to follow the coast towards Ocean Grove for the final leg of your adventure. One of the region’s most popular coastal towns, Ocean Grove is a must-visit destination on the Bellarine Peninsula. And with its sweeping coastline and relaxed atmosphere, it serves as the perfect place to bring your day to a close.

If your four-legged companion still has some energy left after a full day of exploring, head towards the Thirteenth Beach area for one last burst of zoomies. There are year-round off-leash sections at Thirteenth Beach between beach markers 8W and 13W. Just keep an eye out for local signage and wildlife protection areas.

For a more relaxed finale, take a stroll through Ocean Grove’s town centre. Head along The Terrace to browse the local shops and find somewhere to settle in for a well-earned afternoon coffee or snack. With plenty of cafés and eateries around the town centre, it's easy to find a spot to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. If you're ready for a refreshing drink or pub meal to cap off the trip, the sunny beer garden at the Ocean Grove Hotel warmly welcomes dogs on leads.

Ready to Explore Two Peninsulas with Your Dog?

From an early-morning splash on the Mornington Peninsula to an afternoon run along the Bellarine coast, this spring itinerary proves that some of Victoria's best adventures are even better with four paws beside you. So pack the lead, grab the treats, and set your sights on a peninsula-to-peninsula escape.

• Route Overview: Safety Beach → Sorrento → Searoad Ferries Crossing → Queenscliff → Point Lonsdale → Ocean Grove
• Ferries: Departs hourly between Sorrento and Queenscliff daily
• Pet Policy: Dogs travel free of charge! Must remain on a leash on external passenger decks (guide dogs permitted inside).
• What to Bring: Fresh water, travel bowl, lead, waste bags, towel, and dog seatbelt harness

Ready to cross the bay with your dog?

Dogs ride free—you only need to book for human passengers and vehicles.

Book your passage on Searoad Ferries

Soaking in the sea views from the top deck in safe, cosy arms.