25 October 2024
Who does this notice affect?
Stakeholders associated with the import of live cats and dogs (including assistance dogs) from the United Kingdom (UK) to Australian territory, including importers, pet transport agents, and official and government-approved veterinarians.
What has changed?
A new identity check process in the UK will commence from 4 November 2024 for cats and dogs being imported to Australia. Compliant animals that start their preparations using this new process may be eligible to undertake a minimum 10-day post entry quarantine (PEQ) period at our facility in Mickleham, Victoria.
Please note: the minimum 10-day quarantine period only applies to animals that start their preparations using the new UK identity check process. There are several other mandatory pre-export requirements that must occur after the new identity check process is undertaken.
The minimum preparation time from the initial identity check to embarking for travel to Australia is 180 days. Cats and dogs eligible for the minimum 10-day quarantine period will start arriving in Australia from May 2025, 180 days after the new UK identity check system commences operation. In the meantime, all animals that arrive in Australia must undergo a minimum 30-day quarantine period that currently applies to all cats and dog arriving from the UK that are not of returning Australian origin.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has established a webpage with detailed information about the change including frequently asked questions.
When are these changes happening?
Animal Plant and Health Agency (APHA) will implement the identity check process as of 4 November 2024. Animals eligible for a minimum 10-day quarantine period will start arriving in Australia no earlier than 4 May 2025.
We will directly contact all permit applicants and holders of unused permits to advise how the changes may affect your individual circumstances.
Further information
We encourage prospective importers to check our website regularly for up to date information as import conditions can and do change without notice.
Please contact the department by phone 1800 900 090 or email to imports@aff.gov.au if you have any questions.