Animal fur products will no longer be allowed for sale at Northern Beaches Council-run markets and venues after councillors voted through a new restriction at the Council meeting on Tuesday, 19 May.
The proposal was brought forward by Greens councillor Ethan Hrnjak, who argued the change could be incorporated into existing market compliance processes without creating a major administrative burden.
Supporters of the measure said the decision aligned with other policies already adopted by Council in recent years, including restrictions on live animal sales, single-use plastics and the use of 1080 poison.
Debate in the chamber centred on both animal welfare concerns and the role local government should play in regulating the sale of products linked to the fur industry.
Council staff noted practical limitations around enforcement, including the inability to confiscate goods, although councillors backing the proposal suggested stallholders could be instructed to remove suspected fur products from sale.
During the discussion, councillors also referenced other NSW councils that have introduced similar policies, including the City of Sydney, Inner West and Blue Mountains councils.
Opponents of the motion questioned whether the issue fell within Council’s core responsibilities, arguing staff resources and ratepayer funds should remain focused on essential local government services and current financial pressures.
The vote ultimately ended in a deadlock before Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins cast the deciding vote in favour of the ban.
Animal welfare organisations welcomed the decision, describing it as part of a broader movement away from the fur trade both in Australia and internationally.
The ban applies only to markets and facilities operated or controlled by Northern Beaches Council. It does not extend to private retailers, which remain outside Council’s regulatory authority.
An exemption has also been included for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural practices.
Published 23-May-2026
