Public notice: Proposed General (amendment) Local Law 2025
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At the Council Meeting 14 May 2025, Council resolved to propose an amendment local law.
What’s the purpose of the proposed amendment?
The purpose of the proposed Local Law is to amend Council’s General Local Law 2018 by revising the regulation of:
- a) feeding of birds on private property; and
b) feeding of birds on public land.
Why is Council doing this?
Council has received numerous reports from community members about a current issue involving the feeding of wild birds.
The current Local Law does not include adequate provisions to address the issue, and therefore we are proposing to amend the existing local law to introduce new provisions that will enable enforcement action to be taken against those that breach the local law.
Can Council amend a local law?
Yes - the Local Government Act 2020 provides the legislative framework for Councils to make local laws, including a local law which amends an existing local law. Refer to section 71(1) of the Act.
Does this mean the current local law is invalid?
The current local law remains in force and any enforcement action taken under it is valid. If the proposed amendment is adopted, it will be added to the current local law.
What is being proposed?
We are proposing the introduction of a new clause to address the feeding of birds on private property; a new clause to address the feeding of birds on public land; the inclusion of the definition of private property; and the setting of infringement penalty units associated with the new clauses.
A copy of the proposed amendment local law is available for inspection at the Coburg, Glenroy or Brunswick Customer Service Centers. Download the the Proposed Amendment Local Law 2025 (176KB PDF)
Why do we have a local law?
The Local Law aims to ensure a safe, healthy environment, protect public spaces, regulate premises, vehicles, and animals, manage nuisances, and maintain peace and good governance in the municipality.
How do I get involved?
We are genuinely committed to involving our community in decisions that impact and interest them and we invite you to share your thoughts on the proposed amendment via Conversations Merri-bek, our online community engagement page at by contacting the Local Laws team on 9240 1111 or via email at info@merri-bek.vic.gov.au.
How long does the engagement period run?
The community engagement period will run from 15 May 2025 to 4 June 2025.
What happens next?
At the July 2025 Council meeting, a further report will be presented to Council on community responses, and consideration to adopt the General (Amendment) Local Law 2025.
Is the full Local Law being reviewed?
At this stage we are only seeking feedback on this particular amendment. Later this year we will be reviewing our full Local Law.
For further information vist the Conversations Merri-bek webpage.