Australia has a highly favourable animal health status. We are free from many cat and dog diseases. To protect our status, cats and dogs must undertake a period of quarantine upon arrival in Australia.
This quarantine period allows us to:
- assess the required documentation
- monitor the animal's health for symptoms of disease that may be of biosecurity concern.
We operate a post entry quarantine facility for cats and dogs in Mickleham, Melbourne, Victoria.
Fees apply for cats and dogs in our post entry quarantine facility.
The Post entry quarantine facility administration offices are closed on public holidays and weekends.
Veterinary care
If your animal needs veterinary care, we will contact you or your authorised agent.
You or your agent will need to arrange treatment by a private veterinarian. Alternatively, we will seek permission for biosecurity officers to transport the animal to the emergency veterinary hospital, either option will be at your own expense.
Warning to Importers – Heat Stress Concern
Heat stress in cats and dogs is a concern in Australia. We experience extremely hot summers. From December to February temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). There is a significant risk of heatstroke during this time.
Animals at risk are those compromised due to a medical condition, age or breed (Brachycephalic dogs), long or thick hair, overweight or previous history of heat stress.
We strongly advise all importers to:
- discuss appropriate precautions with a veterinarian
- arrange for animals to arrive in Australia early in the morning or later in the day (where possible and subject to normal collection times)
- ensure water will be available during the animal's flight
- ensure travel crate has suitable ventilation
- clip your animal’s coat where appropriate, before travel.
Contact us
Contact the Mickleham Post Entry Quarantine Facility for more on:
- animal reservations
- arrival times
- precautionary measures.