Orange City Council Launches Low-Cost Pet Desexing Program

The subsidized program aims to reduce unwanted and stray animals in the area.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 11:44am

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Orange City Council is offering a subsidized pet desexing program for local residents who hold a current pension or concession card. The program will provide low-cost desexing services for both cats and dogs, with fees set at $70 per cat and $80 per dog. The normal cost of desexing can be upwards of $500, so this program is designed to make the procedure more affordable and encourage responsible pet ownership.

Why it matters

Desexing pets is one of the most effective ways to reduce the number of roaming, nuisance animals and those entering pounds and rescue services. By making desexing more accessible, the program aims to improve animal welfare outcomes across the Orange Local Government Area.

The details

The subsidized pet desexing program is open to all Orange LGA residents who hold a current pension or concession card. There is no household limit on the number of animals that can be included. Bookings will open on March 30, 2026, and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis due to high demand in previous years.

  • Bookings for the 2026 program will open on March 30, 2026.

The players

Orange City Council

The local government authority for the Orange area, responsible for launching the subsidized pet desexing program.

Companion Animal Community Committee

The council committee overseeing the implementation of the pet desexing program.

David Mallard

The Chair of Orange City Council's Environmental Sustainability Committee, who stated that the program is about responsible pet ownership and supporting the community.

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What they’re saying

“This program is about responsible pet ownership and supporting our community. By making desexing more affordable, we can help reduce the number of stray and unwanted animals while improving animal welfare outcomes across the LGA.”

— David Mallard, Chair, Environmental Sustainability Committee

What’s next

Residents are encouraged to ensure their concession or pension cards are current at the time of booking and to act quickly once bookings open due to strong demand in previous years.

The takeaway

This subsidized pet desexing program demonstrates Orange City Council's commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and improving animal welfare in the local community by making an important veterinary procedure more accessible and affordable for eligible residents.