NT posties to receive dog-deterrent spray after rise in attacks

A rise in dog attacks on posties has been reported by Australia Post, with Darwin, Palmerston and Katherine identified as hotspots.

Australia Post will roll out Citronella spray to its employees as a dog attack deterrent. Picture: Supplied

Territory posties will have greater means to protect themselves from dangerous dogs as Australia Post rolls out a new dog deterrent.

Starting in June, postmen and women will be equipped with citronella spray, after a disturbing number of dog-related incidents in the last six months.

Since November last year, there have been 10 recorded incidents involving NT posties and canines, with Katherine, Darwin and Palmerston being the hotspots for these incidents.

Nationally, more than 1,150 dog-related incidents have occurred over the last six months, with an average of 44 a week and nine a day.

The non-harmful citronella spray has been introduced as a last line of defence to protect posties from imminent attack.

Australia Post will roll out Citronella spray to its employees as a dog attack deterrent. Picture: Supplied

General Manager of Safety Russell Munro said Australia Post is constantly looking for ways to better protect frontline team members.

“Despite public awareness efforts and rigorous safety protocols, we continue to see alarming rates of dog-related incidents,” Mr Munro said.

“The best way to avoid dog attacks is to ensure your dog is safely secured behind a locked door or gate when your Postie arrives with your parcel.”

Australia Post said the spray program would be rolled out in “high-risk” regions first, with all posties to be equipped by the end of July.

The program will also be extended to parcel delivery drivers, and all team members will be trained on how to use the spray safely.