20 October 2022
Who does this notice affect?
Stakeholders associated with the import of live dogs, cats and canine semen to Australian territory, including importers, pet transport agents, and official and government-approved veterinarians
What has changed?
The department has conducted a policy review of the rabies virus risk in imported dogs, cats and canine semen from approved countries. The Review of rabies virus risk in imported dogs, cats and canine semen from approved countries – draft report is available for comment on the department’s website at Rabies review – draft report on Have Your Say.
Rabies virus is the most significant disease agent of biosecurity concern associated with the importation of dogs and cats. Rabies virus, which is exotic to Australia, can be transmitted from infected animals to humans and is almost always fatal. The World Health Organisation estimates that rabies causes tens of thousands of human deaths each year, up to 99% of which are due to transmission by infected dogs.
More information about the draft report is available on the department’s website at Biosecurity Advice update.
Further information
We encourage prospective importers to check our website regularly or subscribe to our mailing list for up to date information as import conditions can and do change without notice.