Australia Travel Guide

*Disclaimer: this is a guide only and it is your responsibility to ensure you up to date with guidelines*

Bringing your pet to Australia from the UK involves a detailed process to meet Australia's stringent biosecurity standards. This guide will walk you through the steps, timelines, and requirements to ensure a smooth relocation for your furry companion.

1. Understand Australia's Pet Import Requirements

Australia is free from many animal diseases, so its import regulations are strict. Pets must comply with the following:

Microchip identification: Mandatory for all pets.
Vaccinations: Pets must be up to date with their vaccinations, including rabies.
Health documentation: A series of veterinary tests and certificates are required.
Quarantine period: Pets are subject to a minimum 10-day quarantine upon arrival.

2. Verify Eligibility

Confirm that your pet is eligible for import to Australia:

Only dogs and cats are permitted.
Certain breeds, such as Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentinos, Fila Brasileiros, Japanese Tosas, and wolf-dog hybrids, are prohibited.
Pets must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of travel.

3. Start the Process Early

The entire process can take 6–7 months. Begin planning well in advance to avoid delays.

4. Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Microchip and Rabies Vaccination

Microchip: Implant an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip (required before any vaccinations).
Rabies vaccination: Administer the vaccine after microchipping. Ensure it’s an inactivated vaccine.
Wait 3–4 weeks before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Rabies Titre Test

Conduct a rabies antibody titre test at an approved laboratory at least 180 days before travel.
The result must meet Australia’s threshold (≥ 0.5 IU/mL).

Step 3: Import Permit

Apply for an import permit through Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF).
Submit documentation, including rabies test results and vaccination records.
Processing time: Up to 20 working days.

Step 4: Health Examinations and Treatments

General health checks: Conduct a series of veterinary checks within 45 days of departure.
Parasite treatments: Treat your pet for internal (intestinal worms) and external (ticks) parasites multiple times, adhering to Australian guidelines.

Step 5: Booking Quarantine

Pets must stay in the Post Entry Quarantine (PEQ) facility in Melbourne for a minimum of 10 days.
Book quarantine space as soon as possible, as availability is limited.

Step 6: Pre-Departure Health Check

Conduct a final veterinary examination within 5 days before travel to complete the official health certificate.
The certificate must be endorsed by the UK government’s Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)

5. Travel Arrangements

Airline Requirements

Book with an airline approved for pet transport to Australia.
Pets must travel in an IATA-compliant crate.
Ensure the flight lands in Melbourne, as it’s the only entry point for pets.

Cargo vs. Cabin

Pets typically travel as cargo due to size and regulations.

Travel Comfort

Avoid feeding your pet a large meal within 6 hours of departure.
Provide water but avoid sedating your pet without veterinary advice.

6. Arrival in Australia

Upon arrival:

Pets will be transported to the PEQ facility for quarantine.
During quarantine, pets undergo health checks and final biosecurity clearance.
After 10 days (or longer, if issues arise), you can collect your pet.

7. Costs

Importing pets to Australia can be expensive. Typical costs include:

Veterinary procedures and tests: £500–£1,000+
Import permit: AUD 480+
Quarantine fees: AUD 2,000+
Travel crate: £100–£500
Airline cargo fees: £1,000–£3,000

8. Helpful Tips

Use a pet relocation service: Specialists can handle logistics, ensuring compliance with all requirements.
Keep records organized: Maintain a folder for all paperwork.
Plan ahead for pet comfort: Gradually acclimate your pet to their travel crate.

By adhering to this guide, you can ensure your pet’s journey to Australia is safe and stress-free!