Bringing a pet to Australia
What does the page say?
- Pets must come directly from an approved country, with veterinary preparation and certification there first.
- The microchip must be ISO-readable and its number recorded accurately.
- Pets stay at the post-entry quarantine facility at Mickleham, Victoria. Bookings are required.
- New measures that began on 1 March 2023 change how long some pets spend in quarantine.
What does it cost?
The Department of Agriculture fees page lists these charges in Australian dollars. They are reviewed each year, so check the page before you book.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Reservation charge, per animal | A$269 (non-refundable except in exceptional circumstances) |
| Importation charge, per animal | A$1,078 |
| Quarantine accommodation | A$53 a day (A$530 for 10 days, A$1,590 for 30 days) |
| Document assessment or inspection | A$80 per 30 minutes |
| Import permit application | Separate fee |
A pet vet company (Pet Relocation) adds that the minimum 10-day stay at Mickleham comes to A$1,877 in total. It says a pet whose identity verification is done correctly stays 10 days, and otherwise the minimum is 30 days. Vet work, flights and the crate are extra.
How long does it take?
The same vendor estimates at least six to seven months from the first vet visit for a pet from a country that needs a rabies titre test, with a 180-day wait after the blood test, and says permits take about 10 to 20 business days to assess. Rules depend on which country group you are coming from.
FAQ
Can I bring any animal?
This page covers cats and dogs only.
Is quarantine always needed?
Cats and dogs complete post-entry quarantine at Mickleham.
Who do I contact?
The Department of Agriculture.