Pet transport to Australia
Moving Pets to Australia? We’ve Got You Covered
Moving cats and dogs to Australia takes a bit more planning than most countries. With strict biosecurity rules and mandatory quarantine, there are a few hoops to jump through that need to be done in the right order.
That’s where Transfur Animals come in. We’ve been organising international pet travel to Australia for over 20 years, so we know exactly what’s involved. We’ll handle the flights, permits, paperwork and quarantine booking. So you can relax and know what’s happening at every stage.
If you’re moving pets to Australia, whether you’ve just started looking into it or are halfway through the process, we can step in and get everything on track.
Any questions? Feel free to call us on 01403 212 900 and speak to one of our helpful team members today.
Why Moving Pets to Australia Is Different
Australia takes biosecurity very seriously, meaning there’s a strict process to follow if you want your pet to be allowed in. There’s more to it than just booking a flight:
1. Your pet will need to be vaccinated against rabies
2. Next, they will need a rabies blood test done at least 180 days before they travel
3. You’ll need an import permit from the Australian Department of Agriculture
4. A place must be booked in advance at Melbourne Quarantine (the only quarantine facility in Australia)
5. There are set vet checks and official paperwork to complete
6. Everything has to be timed just right to avoid delays
In short, it’s a process you want to get right the first time. Luckily, our expert team is ready to help. We’ve been helping people with moving pets to Australia since the 90s – so we know all the ins and outs. And don’t worry, we’ll remind you about every deadline, so you’re not left trying to memorise it all!
What We Do For Pet Travel to Australia
There’s a lot to organise when relocating with pets, and Transfur makes this big life change easier for you and your four-legged friends.We’ll take care of the parts you don’t want to deal with, guide you through the parts you do and keep everything moving on time. Here’s what we can handle for you:
Import permits
We apply for an animal import permit with the Australian Department of Agriculture, which is essential for entry.
Rabies blood test timing
We’ll advise when to book the rabies blood test and ensure you meet the 180-day timing rule.
Quarantine booking
We book your pet’s quarantine place in Melbourne, Australia’s only official quarantine facility.
Flight arrangements
Our reliable team arranges flights with trusted airline partners and plans the route carefully. Less time in transit is always better.
Travel containers
We supply or check IATA-compliant travel containers that meet airline and Australian biosecurity standards.
Paperwork & vet checks
We guide you through the vet checks and handle export paperwork and customs clearance.
-
Experience & Reputation
+10,000 pets transfered worldwide
-
Travel Crate & Pet Safety
Ensure pet's comfort & well-being
-
Global Compliance
Expert handling of all paperwork
What Happens When You Book With Us
Moving pets to Australia takes a bit of planning (and patience). Here’s what our process looks like:
Step 1: First chat
Once you get in touch, we’ll take a few details and work out your ideal timings. Some parts of this process (like the rabies blood test and import permit) are time-sensitive, so we’ll get a clear plan in place right from the start.
Step 2: Mapping it out
We’ll give you a complete timeline of what will happen and when. We handle the paperwork, permit applications and quarantine booking – you’ll always know what’s coming up next and we’ll remind you at every stage.
Step 3: Next comes the prep
We’ll liaise with your vet to ensure everything’s on track and sort out the travel container. If you need pre-travel boarding or help with transport to the airport, we can arrange that too.
Step 4: Travel day & beyond
We’ll confirm the final details before your pet sets off, and you’ll get updates while they’re in transit. When they arrive in Melbourne, they’ll go straight to Mickleham Quarantine to settle in. Once their stay is done, normally 30 days, you can collect them, or if it’s easier, we can help arrange the final leg of their journey to your new home. Either way, you’ll know exactly when you can give them that much-deserved cuddle and welcome them to their new home Down Under.
Please note: Australia’s only quarantine station is in Melbourne.
It should be noted that all pets must enter Australia only through Melbourne airport and go directly into quarantine upon arrival for normally a mandatory period of 30 days. After this period of 30 days, your pet(s) can be collected from the quarantine station, or we can arrange for their onward travel to another destination within Australia.
Frequently Ask Questions
How long are dogs quarantined when moving to Australia from the UK?
Dogs from the UK typically undergo 30 days of mandatory quarantine at Mickleham Post Entry Quarantine in Melbourne, provided all paperwork and tests are completed correctly.
How long are cats quarantined when moving to Australia from the UK?
Cats from the UK are subject to the same quarantine requirements as dogs. The standard quarantine period is 30 days.
How much does it cost to move pets to Australia from the UK?
The cost of moving pets to Australia depends on factors such as your pet’s size, travel requirements and destination. Typical costs include flights, veterinary services, an IATA-compliant travel container, import permits and quarantine fees. Transfur Animals will provide a clear, all-inclusive quote based on your pet and the services you need.