1996
The Domestic (Feral & Nuisance) Animals Act was introduced by the Victorian State Government with the stated purpose:”
To promote animal welfare, the responsible ownership of dogs and cats and the protection of the environment.”
Manningham Council established a steering committee to formulate a council Domestic Animal Strategy. Community representatives were appointed to work alongside council representatives, and people from other interested organisations, such as Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water.

1999:
The Domestic Animal Strategy was finalised and passed by Council. The Strategy’s mission statement is:
“To promote and facilitate responsible ownership of dogs and cats, animal welfare and the benefits of animal companionship focusing on the legitimate needs of pets and their owners while respecting the rights of other members of the Community and protecting the environment.”
At the completion of the Steering Committee’s involvement, the community representatives were asked by the elected councillor who was the Committee’s final chairperson, to remain together as an informal advisory group to Manningham Council on domestic animal issues. So Friends of Manningham Dogs and Cats (FOMDAC) was established.