Underdog lord mayor candidate Jamal Hakim promises free pet rego, more dog parks in Melbourne
Lord mayor hopeful Jamal Hakim considers himself an underdog in the election race, but could his plans to make Melbourne better for our pooches be what sets him apart from the rest?
Victoria
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New dog parks for Docklands and Southbank and free pet registrations are being promised by lord mayor hopeful Jamal Hakim who says pets were key to making Melbourne Australia’s top family city.
“Our animals are family to so many Melburnians, and they are vital for our community’s
mental health and resilience,’’ Mr Hakim, a current serving councillor, said.
Mr Hakim said the high rates of dog ownership in apartments meant the council should do more to provide spaces for residents to walk their dogs.
Sections of Harbour Esplanade, even unused concrete spaces, could be converted into parkland, he said.
Free registrations for pets would also encourage more residents to register their animal with the council, Mr Hakim, a cat owner, said.
Docklands resident Nicky Johnston told the Herald Sun that dog owners would like to be able to let their dogs run free in local parks after 5pm.
“It’s a long walk to Ron Barassi Park and many residents here don’t own cars,’’ she said.
Mr Hakim said he wanted to promote a broader culture of care for pets and that his Animal Action Plan would improve the welfare of all animals across Melbourne.
“Pets are family,’’ he said.
Mr Hakim said he considered himself an underdog in the mayoral race but was confident of a strong vote because of his strong economic policy and bold vision for the city.
Mr Hakim and his running mate Esther Anatolitis make up one of 11 teams contesting the mayoral election.
The election to choose the city’s nine councillors is on a separate ballot.
Residents have until October 25 to mail back their postal votes.
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