I thought you might like to see the laws in Brisbane
Cats and dogs - Brisbane City Council
We have to register our dogs, apply for a permit if you have more than two (as I had to in order to have Harry) and your dog has to be microchipped.
They are also now making us register cats (the link to this doesn't work as the state government introduced the law but the council haven't worked out whether it will apply to existing owners).
It hasn't stopped unwanted animals ending up in the pound and being PTS because all of us responsible owners abide by the law and those that don't...well as I said there are still thousands of unwanted animals PTS each year.
On the plus side at least they are trying to do something and you don't see (in my area anyway) "status" dogs. You can tell by most people's reactions to my 3 that there isn't the same hysteria about larger breeds and I know you can't import certain breeds such as pitbulls into Australia.
Your dog has to have his registration tag on his collar. Breeders have to apply for permits.
The registration fees go to the upkeep and maintenance of the dog walking areas.
I think the concept is good but the reality is the good people abide by the laws and the others don't.