A young toddler walking to Avalon Beach children’s pool with his mother and sister was nipped by an offleash dog on 14 January, highlighting growing concerns among Avalon residents about dog control in public spaces.
The incident occurred at approximately 9:20am at south Avalon Beach when a dog, walking at least 10 metres behind its owner, approached the family. The owner’s response was to verbally abuse the mother before walking away with the dog still offleash and continuing towards busy Barrenjoey Road.
Witnesses reported the incident to Northern Beaches Council, and photographs of the dog and owner were forwarded to council as requested.
The incident was one of four dogs observed offleash in the same area within half an hour that morning. The Avalon Beach children’s pool is considered one of the few safe swimming areas for young children in the region.
The incident comes as newly released statistics reveal Northern Beaches Council recorded 247 dog attack reports for the financial year from July 2024 to June 2025, according to NSW Office of Local Government data. This represents the highest number on record for the local government area.
Of these reported incidents, 45 were classified as serious attacks on people requiring hospitalisation or medical treatment, whilst 146 involved attacks on animals.
The figures are particularly concerning when compared to Central Coast Council, which recorded 195 attacks despite having more than twice the number of registered dogs. Central Coast Council has 163,466 registered dogs compared to Northern Beaches Council’s approximately 77,896 microchipped dogs.
Under the NSW Companion Animals Act 1998, dogs in public places must be under effective control by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash, except in designated offleash areas.
Local residents have expressed frustration with what they describe as widespread non-compliance with leash laws across Pittwater and the broader Northern Beaches area. Many say they can no longer find public spaces where dogs are consistently kept onleash as required.
Wildlife concerns have also been raised. On 16 January, a visibly distressed swamp wallaby was filmed racing along Collaroy to Narrabeen beach at 6:15am, appearing to flee from something pursuing it. Macropods, which include wallabies and kangaroos, can suffer from capture myopathy, a potentially fatal condition caused by extreme stress or pursuit.
Avalon residents who witness dog attacks or dogs offleash in prohibited areas are encouraged to report incidents immediately by calling 1300 434 434, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Outside council hours, incidents can be reported to the local police station, as police officers are authorised officers under the Companion Animals Act 1998.
Anonymous reports can also be submitted through Northern Beaches Council’s online portal at help.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/s/submit-request?topic=Pets_Animals.
Statistics for the current financial year from July 2025 to December 2025 have not yet been released.
Published 26-January-2026
