- Published:
- Wednesday 5 November 2025 at 4:00 pm
The Allan Labor Government is supporting lifelong learning at local libraries, while at the same time recognising the working dogs of Victoria for their service to the state.
Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos today joined Victorian Public Libraries Ambassador Andrea Rowe to officially launch of Dogs with Jobs at Frankston Library – alongside seeing eye dog and all-round heroic hound Abbie, as well as dog guide in training, Frodo the pup.
Dogs with Jobs is a non-fiction book for young people that celebrates the wide range of essential jobs man’s best friends do to help their human masters. For millennia, dogs have played integral roles in human society, renowned for their extraordinary sense of smell, hearing, ability to understand commands, and provide comfort and support.
Since being appointed as the inaugural Victorian Public Libraries Ambassador earlier this year, Andrea Rowe has worked to celebrate the role of public libraries as places of lifelong learning for people of all ages.
These days, Victoria’s public libraries offer so much more than just books – they are welcoming and engaging community spaces that offer free opportunities to foster knowledge and creativity.
The Victorian Budget 2025/26 invested more than $950,000 in Frankston City Council’s libraries.
Quote attributable to Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos
“I congratulate Victorian Public Libraries Ambassador Andrea Rowe on the launch of her new book and thank all the handlers and wonderful dogs with jobs for the incredible services they provide.”
Quote attributable to the Member for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region Michael Galea
“Our public libraries provide endless access to knowledge, social connection and entertainment for all Victorians.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke
“Libraries are the heart of communities across Victoria, including Frankston – they are places where people from all walks of life can come together to learn, grow and communicate.”
Quote attributable to Victorian Public Libraries Ambassador Andrea Rowe
“While there are heroic hounds throughout the world helping humanity and the environment, our libraries are also a welcome space for service and assistance dogs who help people feel supported and independent – Dogs with Jobs celebrates the dogs who are trained to help humans out in so many ways.”