Australia has one the highest rates of pet ownership in the world. 69% of Australian households now own a pet, up from 61% in 2019.
In our local area alone, there are 32,820 dogs and 26,815 cats living with their human companions.
Having a pet is known to boost physical and mental wellbeing. In cities like Melbourne, San Francisco, London and Paris, you can take your furry friend on public transport.
Transport for London recently said allowing dogs on public transport helps its efforts to encourage active travel and reduce car dependency. Pets are allowed on all buses, trams and trains – free of charge, at all times.
Meanwhile in Sydney, pets aren’t allowed on trains or at stations including the Sydney Metro. On light rail, buses and ferries, pets are only allowed if Transport for NSW staff agree and not if any of those services are nearing capacity. You can find the current rules here.
Inner-city pet owners are less likely to own a car that can make essential tasks like taking their pet to a vet difficult.
“A city for walking, cycling and public transport must serve everyone’s needs, including people who have a pet,” the Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO said.
“People with pets are still often made to feel like second-class citizens through unnecessarily restrictive policies about pets on public transport,” the Lord Mayor said.
Allowing pets on public transport would align with the growing number of Sydney pubs and cafes welcoming four-legged friends.
How you can help
There is a community-led petition before the Legislative Assembly calling for Transport for NSW to allow pets on public transport.
Published 20 September 2023, updated 23 November 2023
