Australia Post has released alarming statistics showing a rise in dog incidents across Western Australia, with a Perth southern suburb named the worst in the state for attacks on postal workers. Over the past six months, posties nationwide have faced more than 12,000 dog-related incidents, averaging nine per day.
WA Ranks Fourth Worst State
Western Australia has been ranked the fourth worst state in Australia for aggressive and unrestrained dogs, recording 193 incidents since November—roughly 1.1 per day. Analysis by Australia Post identifies Rockingham in Perth's south as the worst suburb for such incidents. Other high-risk areas include Wangara, Bunbury, and Joondalup.
Incidents Occur on Streets and Properties
The statistics reveal that nearly two-thirds of incidents happen on the street after dogs have escaped, with over a third of those cases involving posties being chased. More than a third of incidents occur on a customer's property as the postal worker approaches or leaves the front door. The consequences are severe, including bites, lacerations, and hospital treatment.
New South Wales is the worst state overall, accounting for more than a third of all reports.
Australia Post Urges Pet Owners to Act
Australia Post's General Safety Manager Russell Munro said dog-related incidents remain a serious safety risk. “Posties encounter multiple dogs every day while delivering, and some can pose a real safety risk,” he said. “What seems like a routine delivery can quickly escalate.” Munro urged pet owners to secure dogs when expecting deliveries and consider using 24/7 free Parcel Lockers as a safe alternative.
With 9.8 million Australians shopping online, deliveries are more frequent, creating stressful situations for dogs and increasing risks for postal workers. Australia Post reports all incidents to local councils and may suspend deliveries to unsafe properties or streets.
PAWS for Delivery Initiative
Dog owners are encouraged to follow the PAWS for delivery initiative: Sit your dog safely in a contained place or behind a locked gate; Stay in the area chosen; Secure your dog behind the door to allow safe access for the postie.
