Linkedin Facebook Instagram Youtube

07 3899 0299

Request a proposal

Main Menu
Search

Assistance Animals in Body Corporate Communities: Understanding Rights and Responsibilities

Assistance Animals

A personal approach
to body corporate management

Relationships are the foundation of our business, built on the understanding that every client is unique, not just at a body corporate level, but as individuals.

That’s why we take the time to listen, tailoring our management approach to suit every person, their communication style and business preferences.
Learn how to change body corporate managers

Receive an obligation
free building proposal

We'll need to get some details about your building. Let us know the best time to contact you.

Please contact us here if you are seeking a proposal for a building we don’t currently manage. If you are an existing BCsystems customer please email us at info@bcsystems.com.au

Request a body corporate proposal

Body corporate by-laws typically regulate the approval process for keeping animal(s) within their scheme. When it comes to assistance animals – such as certified guide, hearing, or assistance dogs, there are distinct legislative protections that override typical pet-related rules.

Understanding these protections is crucial for body corporate committees, particularly as they navigate the rights of people with disabilities who rely on assistance animals.

Legal Framework: The BCCM Act and assistance animals

The Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997 (BCCM Act) is the primary legislation governing body corporates in Queensland. For most pet ownership, the BCCM Act requires body corporate committee approval according to each community’s by-laws. However, assistance animals enjoy specific legal protections that distinguish them from pets or companion animals.

Section 181 of the BCCM Act, in conjunction with the Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act 2009, establishes that individuals with disabilities who rely on certified guide, hearing, or assistance dogs have the right to bring these animals onto body corporate property without requiring prior permission. This legal provision extends to owners and occupiers who live in the community, giving them the right to keep their assistance dogs in their private lot regardless of any by-laws mandating approvals.

What qualifies as an assistance animal?

To benefit from these protections, an assistance animal must be certified under the Guide, Hearing and Assistance Dogs Act 2009. These animals are typically recognisable by a badge on their harness or coat and are trained specifically to assist individuals with disabilities.

Unlike traditional pets, assistance animals are more than just companions; they play a critical role in helping people with disabilities carry out daily tasks and achieve greater independence. While many people may think of the classic Labrador guide dog for the visually impaired, assistance animals can vary widely in breed and appearance.

Companion animals vs. assistance animals

Emotional support or companion animals, while often essential to their owners’ well-being, do not fall under the legal category of assistance animals. This means that, unlike assistance animals, companion animals do not have automatic entry and residency rights in body corporate communities. If a resident wishes to bring a companion animal or emotional support animal into a body corporate, they must seek committee approval if their scheme’s by-laws mandate it.

Related content

Share This Post

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Is BCsystems your current body corporate manager?
You are

More To Explore

Personal details
Basics

What Information Does the Body Corporate Need About Me?

When you purchase a lot in a body corporate scheme, it’s essential to provide accurate and up-to-date information to the body corporate. This ensures effective communication, compliance with legal requirements, and smooth management of the scheme.

13 Jan 25
Voting
Basics

Why Voting at Body Corporate Meetings Is Important

Voting at body corporate meetings is an important opportunity to shape the community you live in. Participation ensures that decisions are fair, balanced, and aligned with the collective interests of the community.

6 Jan 25

Stay up to date with BCsystems' strata articles

Subscribe here!

Is BCsystems your current body corporate manager?
You are
Subscribe now!
udia logo
SCA logo