Under an Andrews Labor Government, seeing eye dog puppies in development will no longer be turned away from cafes, restaurants and other businesses.

Labor MP Jaala Pulford joined Labor Candidate for Bentleigh, Nick Staikos, and Labor Candidate for Ringwood, Tony Clark, to make the announcement.

Recently, the Moorabbin Kingston Leader reported that guide dog carer, Diane, was refused entry to a Bentleigh restaurant.

Under current Victorian law, trainee seeing eye dogs can be turned away from establishments without reason. Labor will amend the Domestic Animals Act 1994 so trainee dogs have the same access as qualified seeing eye dogs.

Guide dogs start training with a volunteer at eight weeks of age. The volunteers provide basic training and social company for the pups until they are 12 months old.

Seeing Eye Dogs Australia and Guide Dogs Victoria have campaigned to change the law, to recognise the rights of carers and trainee dogs.

In 2009, the Queensland Government introduced laws to protect seeing eye dog puppies in development and recognise their right of access, with businesses refusing service or entry facing fines of up to $55,000.

Quotes attributable to Mr Staikos

“Guide dogs give the vision impaired the freedom and independence to enjoy life.”

“The law needs to be changed to reflect the views of the community and support the work of the volunteers.”

“Labor will change this unfair law, because people doing the right thing should never be discouraged or turned away.”​