Dogs in the Public Domain - Investigations, Trials and Projects

Narrawallee Beach Dog Access – New Review of Environmental Factors (REF)

Shoalhaven City Council has resolved to undertake a new Review of Environmental Factors (REF) and a fresh round of community engagement following a Council decision in August 2025.

The new REF will assess potential adjustments to the current dog access arrangements at Narrawallee Beach, including:

• 24-hour off-leash access in the central section of the beach during the low season (1 May–1 October each year)
• Additional on-leash dog access via the Victor Avenue and Surfers Avenue stairs.

These options were not assessed in the 2024 REF. Under NSW legislation, any new or altered proposal must be supported by an updated environmental assessment.

Council has engaged external specialists to ensure the process is impartial and transparent. Becscomm will lead the community engagement program, and Biosis will prepare the new REF.

The updated environmental assessment will help Elected Councillors make an informed decision that balances:

• Environmental protection
• Community safety and access
• Amenity for all beach users
• Recreational needs for dog owners
• Relevant state legislation and local policy.

What is happening?

Narrawallee Beach is a highly valued community space with significant recreational use and areas of environmental sensitivity, including habitat for migratory and threatened shorebirds.

A new REF is required to understand the environmental, social and recreational impacts of the proposed adjustments. This includes assessing:

• Potential impacts of extended or 24-hour off-leash activity
• The suitability of stair access points
• Safety and accessibility considerations for all users
• Risks of disturbance to sensitive shorebird habitat
• Beach use patterns and community amenity
• Likely effects on dune systems and coastal processes.

This assessment will identify any risks and recommend mitigation measures where needed.

How can the community have their say?

Council has engaged external specialists to prepare the REF and deliver the engagement program. The community will have three opportunities to participate:

1. Online questionnaire – February 2026
   A short survey to capture lived experience and community priorities.
2. Stakeholder and community engagement sessions – February to March 2026
   Meetings with key groups, along with in-person community information sessions.
3. Public exhibition of the draft REF – March to April 2026
   The draft REF will be available for review, and formal submissions can be made during this period.

All feedback will be summarised in an Engagement Outcomes Report and provided to Council.

How will the final decision be made?

Once the new REF is complete, Elected Councillors will determine whether to retain or adjust dog access arrangements at Narrawallee Beach.

Before making a decision, Councillors will consider:

• The findings of the final REF
• Outcomes from community and stakeholder engagement
• Relevant legislation and policy requirements
• Environmental risks and possible mitigation measures
• Impacts on public access and amenity
• Safety, compliance and practical feasibility.

This process ensures the final decision is informed, transparent and evidence-based.