Perth’s $2.5 Million Push For Cleaner Parks: City Of Wanneroo Expands Dog Waste Facilities

The City of Wanneroo in Perth’s northern suburbs is taking a major step toward cleaner, more hygienic public spaces — and it’s doing so with a $2.5 million investment. The council has announced plans to roll out dog poo bag dispensers across all its parks, ensuring that pet owners can easily clean up after their furry companions while enjoying the outdoors.

Currently, 81 parks across Perth’s second-largest local government area are equipped with the dispensers. However, the City of Wanneroo Council has approved a significant expansion that will see the installation of dispensers at 486 parks over the next five years. This large-scale initiative responds directly to increasing demand from residents and reflects a growing community expectation for improved park amenities and cleanliness.

A Response to Community Demand

The idea for the expanded waste service emerged after the council observed an overwhelming demand from residents, who collectively use around three million dog poo bags every year. Many pet owners voiced their appreciation for the existing facilities, describing them as convenient, durable, and easy to use.

Feedback from both the community and council staff also highlighted that the dispensers helped reduce vandalism and litter while promoting responsible pet ownership. By expanding the network of dispensers, the council aims to create a consistent, reliable service across all public spaces, improving both hygiene and the overall park experience.

Cleaner Parks, Healthier Communities

The project will involve installing 507 additional bag dispensers and bins in high-use areas, including off-lead zones, dog beaches, and popular parks. The council believes this effort will not only enhance cleanliness but also support the well-being of both residents and their pets.

According to the council report, integrating these dispensers directly into park waste bins aligns with public expectations and significantly improves amenity. It also minimises maintenance issues and makes waste management more efficient.

This initiative demonstrates how local governments can take proactive steps toward creating more sustainable and user-friendly public environments. By making it easier for dog owners to do the right thing, the City of Wanneroo hopes to reduce the presence of pet waste in shared spaces — a frequent source of frustration for parkgoers.

A $2.5 Million Commitment to Cleanliness

The council’s $2.5 million investment will fund not only the dispensers themselves but also the staff and resources needed to support the rollout. The new waste facilities will be strategically placed in areas with high foot traffic and significant dog-walking activity to ensure maximum accessibility.

Mayor Linda Aitken, who has received numerous complaints about dog waste in local parks, said she was thrilled about the decision.

“I’m very excited about this,” Mayor Aitken said.

“One of the biggest complaints I’ve received is about dog faeces in parks where there are no bag dispensers. Our community will greatly benefit from this program.”

She added that once the rollout is complete, residents will likely come to see these dispensers as a normal part of park life — an essential but often overlooked convenience.

“I’m sure our community might not be quite so excited, because they’ll take it for granted,” she joked. “But that’s exactly the point — soon, every park will have these waste bin dispensers, and people won’t have to look for them anymore.”

Encouraging Responsible Pet Ownership

Beyond keeping parks clean, the initiative reflects a broader goal of encouraging responsible pet ownership across Perth’s northern communities. When dog owners have easy access to waste disposal options, they’re more likely to clean up after their pets, preventing unpleasant and unhygienic conditions in shared spaces.

Proper waste disposal also helps protect the local environment, reducing contamination in grassed areas and waterways. It’s a small act that contributes to a larger culture of respect and care within the community.

For residents and their pets, these changes will make outdoor spaces more enjoyable and accessible. Clean, well-maintained parks also support active lifestyles and social interaction — whether it’s a family picnic, a morning jog, or a casual meet-up between fellow dog owners.

Looking Ahead

The City of Wanneroo’s investment marks one of the largest dog waste management initiatives in Western Australia. By expanding its waste service to hundreds of parks, the council sets a strong example for other communities across the country seeking practical, community-driven solutions to public hygiene challenges.

As these new dispensers appear across Perth’s north, local pet owners can look forward to a cleaner, more pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy. With the council’s long-term commitment and community cooperation, Wanneroo’s parks are set to become some of the most pet-friendly and well-maintained in the region.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation in Perth: Complementing the Initiative

While the park improvements focus on public outdoor spaces, pet owners relocating or visiting Perth will be pleased to know there are a variety of pet-friendly accommodation options available in the region. For example, the Quest Apartment Hotels chain offers “Paw-fect Travellers” stays in East Perth, Fremantle and other suburb locations, welcoming pets to stay alongside their owners.

Other platforms list over 500 pet-friendly rentals around Perth, demonstrating that the city continues to adapt to the growing demand for accommodation where pets are considered part of the family.

These pet-friendly stays support the broader goals of inclusion and comfort for pet owners, making both living and moving in Perth more appealing for families with animals. Combined with initiatives such as the new park dispensers in Wanneroo, Perth is increasingly aligning its infrastructure and hospitality with the needs of pet-loving residents and travelers.

In essence, this initiative is more than just about managing waste — it’s about building a culture of cleanliness, responsibility, and respect for shared spaces. And for pet owners in Wanneroo, that’s a welcome step toward a fresher, friendlier future.